Emirates tested travelers for Coronavirus before boarding this week. The first airline to begin testing passengers on-site for COVID-19. The kick-off flight from Dubai to Tunisia tested all passengers for COVID-19 before boarding in Dubai.
The COVID-19 test is a quick blood test conducted by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), with results available within 10 minutes. Quartz reported that ” the tests do not diagnose a current Covid-19 infection: Instead, they check for antibodies, which can reveal whether the person has been exposed to the virus and developed antibodies against it.”
The testing took place at the Group Check-in area of Dubai International Airport Terminal 3.
Emirates press release states that Adel Al Redha, Emirates Chief Operating Officer, said:
“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. The health and safety of staff and passengers at the airport remain of paramount importance.”
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Wellbeing at Dubai Airport
Check-in desks now have a barrier to protect passengers and staff. Besides, the Emirates staff wear mandatory gloves and masks.
Also, all departing passengers undergo thermal scanning at Dubai Airport Terminal 3. Passengers are required to bring their face masks and gloves. In addition to practicing social distancing rules.
Emirates has modified its inflight services to help reduce the spread of the Cornovavirus. For example, magazines are no longer available.
Carry-on items permitted on Emirates cabin are now limited to laptop, handbag, briefcase, or baby items. All other things require check-in.
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What do you think of passengers for being tested for Coronavirus before boarding?
