Emirates starts testing passengers for Covid-19
Emirates is claiming to be the first airline in the world to carry out on-site Covid-19 testing for passengers.
On Wednesday, Emirates and the Dubai Health Authority tested passengers as they checked in for a flight to Tunisia.
It said results were returned within 10 minutes.
The airline is working on scaling up its testing capabilities and plans to extend testing 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," said chief operating officer Adel Al Redha.
Emirates’ check-in and boarding formalities have been adapted to comply with social distancing requirements.
Protective barriers have been installed at check-in desks and airport staff must wear protective gear including gloves and masks.
Passengers are also required to wear their own masks in the airport and on the aircraft.
Inflight services have also been altered to help combat the spread of Covid-19. Magazines and other print materials are no longer available, while the packaging and presentation of food and drinks has been modified to reduce interaction.
The only carry-on items allowed currently are laptops, handbags, briefcases and baby items. All other bags must be checked-in.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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