The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have introduced new health declaration requirements for all individuals travelling by air to the United States, as part of preventive measures in response to the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The measure, effective from 23:59 EST on 3 November 2026, introduces a mandatory individual declaration procedure applicable to international flights bound for the United States, regardless of the country of departure.
What does the new requirement involve?
All individuals boarding an aircraft bound for the United States must complete and sign a declaration certifying that they have not been physically present in the Democratic Republic of the Congo during the 21 days preceding the flight.
- This condition also includes airport connections within the territory of the DRC, even where the traveller has neither disembarked from the aircraft nor left the airport.
- Overflights without landing in the country are not considered physical presence for these purposes.
- The requirement applies to passengers and, under the order as amended by the CDC, also to crew members operating passenger and cargo aircraft.
- It also applies to crew members travelling as deadhead crew.
Responsibilities of aircraft operators
The regulation establishes specific obligations for airlines and other aircraft operators:
- Pre-boarding verification: Ensure that every individual on board has completed and signed the relevant declaration, either in paper or digital format.
- Document checks: Do not permit individuals to board unless they have submitted the required declaration, unless they hold an official exemption issued by the United States Government.
- Record retention: Retain a copy of each declaration for a minimum of 42 days following the flight’s arrival in the United States.
- Document availability: Make the records available to US authorities upon request.
Each individual must have their own declaration. An authorised representative may complete the form on behalf of certain travellers, while the operator’s personnel may assist with entering the required information, without assuming responsibility for certifying it on the traveller’s behalf.
What does this mean for business aviation?
For business aviation and private aircraft operators, this measure introduces an additional layer of document verification and pre-departure coordination.
International operations involve the coordination of passengers, flight crews, flight departments, ground handling agents and service providers. Correctly identifying and addressing applicable requirements is therefore essential to avoiding delays, boarding complications and regulatory non-compliance.
It is consequently important to incorporate this verification into flight preparation procedures, taking into account the documentation requirements applicable to both passengers and crew members.
The value of operational foresight
At Aerowise, we understand that an efficient international operation depends not only on flight coordination, but also on the ability to anticipate regulatory changes, identify specific requirements and keep all stakeholders connected.
Monitoring requirements issued by aviation and public health authorities is an integral part of responsible operational management. Timely information and proper document preparation enable operators and flight crews to make better-informed decisions, improve operational predictability and minimise potential disruptions ahead of each departure.
Aerowise | Local Intelligence. Global Operations.
This communication is intended for informational purposes only and does not supersede official regulations or specific instructions issued by the competent authorities. Operators should consult their Operations Department for the latest applicable CDC updates prior to each operation.
