Emirates to suspend all Italy flights, conduct thermal screening on US-bound flights

Dubai airline Emirates has announced that it will suspend all flights to and from Italy in response to the Covid-19 outbreak in the European nation.

The final flight will operate on March 15, it said in a statement.

The airline is also working with the relevant authorities to monitor the developments closely, it added.

Italy has gone into completely lockdown after reporting more than 12,000 coronavirus cases and over 800 deaths – the worst after China.

Emirates also announced that it will be implementing thermal screening measures for all passengers travelling on US flights departing from Dubai International Airport, effective from Thursday, March 12.

Thermal scanners will be placed at departure gates for all US gateways, starting with EK 231 to Washington Dulles International Airport.

If a passenger is found to have a higher than normal temperature, they will undergo further testing.

This is in addition to the thermal screenings done for all passengers on arrival as they pass through customs, the airline said.

Emirates also plans to gradually roll out thermal screening procedures for all of its flights departing Dubai, it added.

The measures are being taken as part of the airline’s overall response to the latest developments around the Covid-19 pandemic.

Passengers have been advised to reach the airport three hours recommended time of arrival at the airport to ensure they can complete all the formalities.

In addition to thermal screening procedures at the airport, Emirates has also enhanced cleaning and complete disinfection protocols in over 248 aircraft departing Dubai each day.

The airline said it utilises high-grade cleaning chemicals proven to kill viruses and germs, and conducts a thorough wiping down of all cabin surfaces, in addition to other normal procedures such as changing head rest covers on all seats, replacement of reading materials and vacuuming.

On any aircraft found to have transported a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 case, Emirates implements further deep cleaning including the defogging of cabin interiors and misting with disinfectant across all soft furnishings, and replacement of seat covers and cushions in the affected area.

The airline is also offering all passengers the ability to change their travel dates without change and reissuance fees on any bookings made prior to March 31. Cancellation and refund fees will also be waived for bookings made between March 7- 31, regardless of travel date.