ISLAMABAD: In a step to make air travel possible again, Emirates has started conducting rapid-on site COVID-19 blood tests on its passengers.
According to a statement released by the airline, the first rapid tests took place on Wednesday at Dubai International Airport, with passengers on a flight to Tunisia. Results were available within 10 minutes.
The tests were conducted by the Dubai Health Authority at the group check-in area of Terminal 3.
A man undergoes blood testing for COVID-19 before boarding an Emirates flight at Dubai International Airport. (Photo courtesy: Emirates)
"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 traveling to countries that require COVID-19 test certificates," Emirates chief operating officer Adel Al-Redha said.
The airline has also modified its check-in and boarding procedures to follow social distancing requirements and asked all passengers to wear masks at all times, even onboard flights.
Magazines and other print reading material will not be available on board, while food and beverages will be offered in modified packaging to reduce any infection risk. Carry-on items allowed in the cabin will be limited to laptops, handbags, briefcases and baby items.
The company said all Emirates aircraft will go through enhanced cleaning and disinfection processes in Dubai, after each journey.
