Emirates Airline has launched a 10-minute coronavirus blood test screening for passengers leaving Dubai. It’s the first for the industry.
The airline has resumed flights earlier this month, to help repatriate those who live in the UAE. The flights are open for foreign citizens of the country, but no incoming passengers are allowed.
“Passengers on today’s flight to Tunisia were all tested for COVID-19 (respiratory disease) before departing from Dubai,” the airline said in a statement.
“Emirates is the first airline to conduct on-site rapid COVID-19 tests for passengers.”
Blood testing occurs during the check-in area and is conducted by the Dubai Health Authority. The results are available within ten minutes.
“We are working on plans to scale up testing capabilities in the future and extend it to other flights,” said Chief Operating Officer Adel al-Redha.
“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.”
Emirates also said that it is cleaning and disinfecting planes after each flight.
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