EMIRATES GOES THE EXTRA MILE TO ALLAY COVID-19 FEARS

AT A TIME WHEN THE COVID-19 outbreak is dominating global headlines, Emirates has announced several procedures and initiatives to give passengers peace of mind when travelling with the airline. They include:

Enhanced cleaning and disinfection

On all aircraft departing from its hub in Dubai, Emirates has implemented enhanced cleaning and complete disinfection of all cabins as a precaution. In line with the latest expert medical findings that the COVID-19 virus is primarily transmitted by touch, Emirates has placed its greatest focus on surface cleaning. The airline uses an approved chemical that is proven to kill viruses and germs, leaves a long-lasting protective coating against new contamination of viruses, bacteria and fungi on surfaces, and is eco-friendly. The cleaning process includes a comprehensive wipe down of all surfaces – from windows, tray tables, seatback screens, armrests, seats, in-seat controls, panels, air vents and overhead lockers in the cabin, to lavatories, galleys and crew rest areas. This is being conducted in addition to regular procedures such as changing head rest covers on all seats, replacement of reading materials, vacuuming, and more.

If a COVID-19 case is suspected

On any aircraft found to have transported a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 case, Emirates will implement further deep cleaning and disinfection in a process that takes between six to eight hours to complete. This will include defogging cabin interiors and misting with disinfectant across all soft furnishings and the replacement of seat covers and cushions in the affected area. The aircraft’s HEPA cabin air filters will also be replaced. HEPA cabin air filters are proven to filter out 99.97 per cent of viruses. They also remove dust, allergens and microbes from the air recirculated into the cabin and cockpit.

Peace of mind on travel plans

Emirates has also introduced a waiver policy for all bookings made before March 31, allowing customers to change their travel plans without reissuance fees. Customers can change their booking to any date for travel within an 11-month date range in the same booking class without change penalties.

Loyal flyers retain their tier status

Recognising that some of its members will be impacted by travel restrictions and flight reductions, Emirates Skywards is offering Platinum, Gold and Silver members the ability to maintain their current status by fulfilling 80 per cent of their tier travel requirements between March 31 and June 30, 2020. In addition, Skywards members booked to travel between now and June 30 2020 will benefit from an additional 20 per cent bonus Tier Miles.

Monitoring and response protocols

Since January, Emirates has activated its contingency response team to monitor daily developments on the COVID-19 outbreak, maintain contact with all relevant health and regulatory authorities, and ensure the airline’s response is current and appropriate.