For some time now, an unusual situation has been noted with the Colombian airline, Avianca. Onboard, before reaching Aruba, the entire plane is sprayed with antibacterial chemicals. The flight attendant, through her announcement, informs passengers that this spraying is a requirement from the Aruban authorities. Considering that the name of the Aruban authority is being used, it was decided to verify if this is indeed the case. The situation is strange, especially since airlines like Wingo, which fly the same route, do not apply this procedure. Similarly, neither Copa Airlines nor American Airlines do it.
Director of the Aruba Civil Aviation Department, Edwin Kelly, was approached to shed light on the truth behind Avianca’s procedure. Kelly began by saying that he himself was aboard an Avianca flight recently and personally disliked the procedure as it can be bothersome for passengers.
This procure does not fall directly under the Civil Aviation Department, as it concerns health matters. However, Kelly’s department is responsible for facilitating communication between the government department and the airlines.
Kelly contacted the Aruba Department of Public Health to verify if this is indeed a requirement they demand. Truth be told, after checking thoroughly, it turned out that it is not something they demand. Therefore, it is not true that the Aruban authorities require this anti-bacterial spraying.
The director believes that this is more likely a company procedure. Avianca cannot claim it is a requirement from the Aruban authorities but rather something they apply themselves.
While the Department of Public Health recommends it, it is not a requirement.
