Emirates steps up safety measures for passengers and employees

Emirates is stepping up precautionary measures at airports and on board aircrafts to ensure the health and safety of its employees and customers. 

All cabin crew, boarding agents and ground staff in direct contact with passengers will now don personal protective equipment (PPE) which includes a protective disposable gown over their uniforms, and a safety visor, in addition to masks and gloves, according to a press release on Wednesday.

At Dubai International Airport gloves and masks are mandatory for all customers and employees. Thermal scanners monitor the temperatures of all passengers and employees entering the airport. 

Physical distancing indicators have been placed on the ground and at waiting areas to help travellers maintain the necessary distance during check-in and boarding, the statement adds. 

The airport team has also installed protective barriers at each check-in desk to provide additional safety reassurance to passengers and employees during interaction over the counter.

On board Emirates' flights, seats are pre-allocated with vacant seats placed between individual passengers or family groups in observance of physical distancing protocols.

Emirates has also modified its inflight services for health and safety reasons. 

Food and beverages continue to be offered in the form of bento-styled boxes to reduce contact between the crew and passengers during meal service, and minimise risk of interaction. 

Cabin baggage is not accepted on flights. Carry-on items allowed in the cabin are limited to laptop, handbag, briefcase or baby items. Emirates will add the cabin baggage allowance to customers' check-in baggage allowance. 

Customers have to wear masks and gloves throughout their journey from check-in until they disembark.

All Emirates aircraft will go through enhanced cleaning and disinfection processes in Dubai, after each journey.