Emirates has redefined it safety and hygiene standards with new hygiene kits, new boarding procedures and additional hygiene-focused crew onboard.
The new safety measures aim to inspire maximum passenger confidence. Adel Al Redha, Emirates’ chief operating officer, said: “The risk of catching an infection on an aircraft is already very low, but we have spared no effort in reviewing and redesigning every step, from check-in to disembarkation. Every measure implemented is an additional reduction in risk, and taken altogether, our aim is really to make flying as safe as possible.
“We are working with all the stakeholders in Dubai – including the airport, immigration, health and aviation authorities to implement such measures, and we will continue to review and consult expert advice for any development and changes. We are all aware that we have to adapt to different practices during this pandemic in our day to day activities.’
The measures include complimentary hygiene kits to be given to every passenger at check in, including masks, gloves, antibacterial wipes and hand sanitiser. Mandatory use of gloves and masks at the airport and mandatory masks onboard. Thermal scanners, social distancing measure and protective barriers have also been added at the airport and transit lounges.
Boarding is now sequenced last row to the first, and staggered in small numbers, boarding agents are dressed in PPE and boarding gates are deep cleaned and disinfected after the boarding of every flight.
Onboard, all cabin crew are fully kitted out in PPE and a new cabin service assistant (CSA) has been added to the crew complement on flights over one and a half hours. The CSAs ensure lavatories are cleaned every 45 minutes. Each lavatory has been equipped with sanitising soap and hand washing instructions.
Magazines and print material have been removed and menu and wine lists are now single use. Comfort items such as mattresses, pillows, blankets, headphones and toys are hygienically sealed.
Emirates will resume its service with hot meals, using high quality, cutlery and crockery, sterilised before each use.
