Emirates rolls out 'rapid' pre-flight Covid-19 testing

Emirates has adapted its check-in and boarding procedures to conform to social distancing, while protective barriers have been installed at check-in desks to protect employees and passengers during any interactions.

Passengers must wear masks when at the airport and onboard their flight, and adhere to social distancing guidelines. Use of gloves, masks and hand sanitiser has, meanwhile, been made mandatory for all airport workers.

In-flight magazines and other printed reading materials have been removed, while cabin baggage is now limited to laptops, handbags, briefcases and baby items.

Food and drink will continue to be offered, but packaging and presentation will be altered to reduce contact during service.

All Emirates aircraft will undergo enhanced cleaning and disinfection in Dubai after each journey.

TTG has approached Emirates for further comment on how many passengers were tested, and how widely Emirates intends to roll out these testing measures following the trial.

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 travelling to countries that require Covid-19 test certificates."