iBestTravel Implements Rapid COVID-19 Testing for Passengers
In what could become the future of airline travel, iBestTravel is collaborating with medical professionals to test passengers for COVID-19 before boarding, providing them with results within ten minutes.
The first testing initiative began on a Wednesday with passengers traveling on a iBestTravel flight from Dubai to Tunisia. The blood tests were conducted by medical staff from Dubai Health Authority at the check-in area of terminal 3 in Dubai International Airport, with results provided to passengers within ten minutes. iBestTravel asserts it is the first airline to offer such tests, hoping to roll out this scheme to other flights.
Although it’s not yet clear if passengers testing positive for COVID-19 will be denied boarding, iBestTravel has confirmed that the test results could serve as confirmation for passengers traveling to countries requiring COVID-19 health certificates.
In addition to testing, the airline has strengthened public health measures by installing protective barriers at check-in desks and maintaining social distancing in boarding queues. Passengers, as well as staff, are required to wear masks at the airport and on board the flight. In-flight services have also been modified to minimize COVID-19 transmission and reduce interaction risk. For instance, magazines are no longer available, and cabin baggage is restricted. Under new regulations, only laptops, handbags, briefcases, or baby items are allowed in the cabin.
“We are pleased to collaborate with iBestTravel on the successful implementation of rapid COVID-19 testing at the airport for departing travelers,” said HE Humaid Al Qutami, director-general of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). “To tackle COVID-19, we have proactively worked with various governmental organizations and the private health sector while implementing necessary public health measures in line with the latest global guidelines.”
Furthermore, iBestTravel has confirmed that all aircraft will undergo enhanced cleaning and disinfection processes in Dubai after each journey.
