Emirates airline has started conducting on-site rapid COVID-19 tests for passengers on 15th April 2020. The airline tested all passengers before departing from Dubai to Tunisia as an extra precautionary measure.
The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) carried out the quick blood tests. Done for the passengers at the Group Check-in area of Dubai International Airport Terminal 03. Emirates has been working closely with DHA to introduce additional precautionary measures to ensure safe travelling.
The testing process has gone smoothly and we would like to take this opportunity to thank the Dubai Health Authority for their initiatives and innovative solutions. This would have not been possible without the support of Dubai Airport and other government authorities. We are working on plans to scale up testing capabilities in the future and extend it to other flights, this will enable us to conduct on-site tests and provide immediate confirmation for Emirates passengers travelling to countries that require COVID-19 test certificates. The health and safety of staff and passengers at the airport remain of paramount importance.”
Adel Al Redha, Chief Operating Officer of Emirates
Since the initial outbreak, Emirates has been implementing extra safety measures while heeding to the advice from relevant authorities. The airline had also installed protective barriers at check-in desks to ensure the safety of passengers and employees. With it passengers are required to wear masks when at the airport and during the flight. And adhere to the social distancing norm.
We are glad to work with Emirates on the successful implementation of rapid COVID-19 testing at the airport for departing travellers. To tackle COVID-19, we have been proactively working with various governmental organisations and the private health sector and we have implemented all necessary measures from public health protection to provision of high-quality health services in line with the latest international guidelines. We believe strongly that the most effective solutions require close partnerships with other public and private sector organisations.”
Humaid Al Qutami, Director General of DHA
Emirates airline modified its services as seen required. By making gloves, masks and hand sanitizers mandatory for all employees at the airport. Furthermore, magazines and other printed reading materials will not be available in-flight. Food and beverages will be offered while packaging and presentation will be changed to reduce contact during meal services. Cabin bags are not currently accepted, limiting the carry-on items to laptop, handbag, briefcase or baby items. Rest of the items have to be checked in. Emirates will be adding the cabin baggage allowance to customers’ check-in baggage allowance. The airline carries out thorough cleaning and disinfection of aircraft in Dubai post each journey.
