Emirates Airlines Will Conduct Thermal Testing for Passengers Arriving to U.S.
by Daine Taylor /
Emirates Airlines, the state-owned airline based in Dubai, will be implementing thermal screening measures for all passengers traveling on U.S. flights departing from Dubai International Airport, effective immediately, in an effort to prevent the further spread of the coronavirus.
As part of the new measure, thermal scanners will be placed at departure gates for all U.S. gateways, starting with flight EK231 to Washington Dulles International Airport. Passengers found to have a higher than normal temperature will be required to undergo further testing.
“The measures are being taken as part of the airline’s overall response to the latest developments around the COVID-19 pandemic. Emirates has been coordinating efforts in conjunction with local health and regulatory authorities, including the Dubai Health Authority, so that the airline meets or exceeds local and international guidelines and directives around COVID-19,” the airline said in a statement on its website. “Emirates plans to gradually roll out thermal screening procedures for all of its flights departing Dubai to ensure the health and safety of its customers traveling abroad.”
The carrier has also implemented several health and safety measures to help ensure a safe flying experience, including enhanced cleaning and complete disinfection protocols in over 248 aircraft departing from Dubai every day.
Additionally, the airline is also offering passengers the ability to change their travel dates without change and reissuance fees on any bookings made prior to Mar. 31. Cancellation and refund fees will also be waived for bookings made between Mar. 7 and Mar. 31, regardless of travel date.