UAE. Emirates has partnered with the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) to introduce on-site rapid COVID-19 testing for passengers, in what the airline says is a world first.
The airline implemented the new testing procedure at Dubai International (DXB) on 15 April with passengers who were boarding a flight to Tunisia. It is working on plans to extend this to other flights for passengers who are travelling to countries that require COVID-19 test certificates.
The rapid blood tests were conducted by the Dubai Health Authority with results available in ten minutes. The group check-in area at DXB Terminal 3 was transformed into a rapid testing zone.
“We believe strongly that the most effective solutions require close partnerships with other public and private sector organisations” — His Excellency Dubai Health Authority Director-General Humaid Al Qutami
Emirates has also overhauled its check-in and boarding protocols to adapt to social distancing. The airline has installed protective barriers at each check-in desk to limit the chances of infection during passenger/employee interactions. It has also made it mandatory for all employees to be equipped with gloves, masks and hand sanitisers.
In addition, the airline has implemented a series of additional health, hygiene and safety precautions onboard its fleet. The company said that all passengers are required to follow social distancing guidelines and wear their own masks in the airport and onboard the aircraft. After each journey, all aircraft will undergo an enhanced cleaning and disinfection process.
As an added safety measure, Emirates has also adapted a number of inflight services including removing magazines and other print materials, modifying the packaging and presentation of food and beverages onboard, and reducing contact during meal service. Cabin baggage is currently not allowed onboard, and carry-on items are now limited to laptops, handbags, and essential baby items.
Emirates Chief Operating Officer Adel Al Redhna commented, “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.”
He added, “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.”
His Excellency Dubai Health Authority Director-General Humaid Al Qutami commented, “We are glad to work with Emirates on the successful implementation of rapid COVID-19 testing at the airport for departing travellers.”
His Excellency added, “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.”
