Emirates has become the first airline to conduct on-site,
rapid Covid-19 tests for passengers prior to departure.
The United Arab Emirates flag carrier conducted the test in
coordination with the Dubai Health Authority prior to the boarding of its
Dubai-Tunisia flight on Wednesday. The tests were administered at the check-in
area and results were available within 10 minutes, Emirates said.
The airline said it is working to extend the testing 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 COO Adel Al Redha said. “The
health and safety of staff and passengers at the airport remain of paramount
importance.”
The carrier has implemented a variety of new safety
measures, including a requirement that all passengers wear their own masks on
the plane and at the airport. In addition, protective barriers have been
installed at check-in desks. Carry-on baggage is limited to laptops, handbags,
briefcases and baby items.
On April 18, Emirates will resume U.S. flying with a single
repatriation flight from Dubai to Chicago. No other U.S. flights are currently
scheduled.