The aviation industry has been the most affected in this COVID19 pandemic. Many American and other airlines have reported losses in billions when the world was under lockdown. While many companies have laid off their staff and others have hiked the fares, there are a few that have been winning hearts with their gestures.
Now that many countries have started repatriation and domestic flights, airlines have imposed various measures to ensure that the passengers and the crew travel safely. From middle seats being blocked to screenings conducted on the airport, there are various precautions taken up by the airlines and the airport authorities.
However, UAE based Emirates Airlines has taken the COVID19 precautionary steps to another level. The airline has announced that it will cover medical expenses up to 150,000 euros ($177,962.25) for passengers diagnosed with COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus, during their travel, and while they are away from home.
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the Emirates Group chairman, and chief executive said in a statement released on Twitter,
“Emirates is proud to lead the way in boosting confidence for international travel. We know people are yearning to fly as borders around the world gradually re-open, but they are seeking flexibility and assurances should something unforeseen happen during their travel.”
As directed by @HHShkMohd, @emirates will be the first airline to offer free cover for COVID-19 medical costs for customers when they travel to & from UAE & around the world. This will boost travel confidence & once again positions Emirates & Dubai as aviation industry leaders. pic.twitter.com/9mUBeDnx1X
— HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum (@HHAhmedBinSaeed) July 23, 2020
The offer is valid for 31 days from the start of a passenger’s journey and will run from now until the end of October. Emirates has become the first airline in the world to provide free, global cover to customers from COVID-19 medical expenses.
