Emirates has introduced enhanced cleaning and disinfection measures on its aircraft, as a precaution against the spread of coronavirus.
The Gulf carrier said that the measures – which include “the complete disinfection of all cabins” – would be carried out on all aircraft departing Dubai, regardless of routes.
In a statement Emirates said that “In line with the latest expert medical finding that the COVID-19 virus is primarily transmitted by touch, Emirates has placed its greatest focus on surface cleaning”.
“The airline uses an approved chemical that is proven to kill viruses and germs, leaves a long-lasting protective coating against new contamination of viruses, bacteria and fungi on surfaces, and is eco-friendly,” continued the carrier.
“The cleaning process includes a comprehensive wipe down of all surfaces – from windows, tray tables, seatback screens, armrests, seats, in-seat controls, panels, air vents and overhead lockers in the cabin, to lavatories, galleys and crew rest areas.”
“All of this is done in addition to other normal procedures such as changing head rest covers on all seats, replacement of reading materials, vacuuming, and more.”
The airline said that in order to complete the cleaning process within an hour “while the aircraft is preparing for its next mission”, a team of 18 cleaners is required for its B777 aircraft, and 36 for its A380 superjumbos. An average of 248 aircraft will go through the process every 24 hours.
Emirates added that any aircraft “found to have transported a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 case”, would go through a six to eight hour deep cleaning and disinfection process, including the “defogging of cabin interiors”, “replacement of seat covers and cushions in the affected area”, and the replacement of the aircraft HEPA cabin air filters.
