As flight numbers continue to increase, a sense of normality is returning to the travel industry amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
So much so, that Dubai-based airline Emirates is aiming to return to its full flight capacity by summer 2021.
In a recent interview with CNBC, the airline’s chief operating officer, Adel Al Redha, revealed that Emirates’ full pre-COVID flight numbers should return by next year.
“I think we can easily say by summer 2021, we will be serving 100 per cent of our network destinations, that means 143 destinations will be served by summer 2021,” he said.
“Obviously, the frequency of flights per day will depend on the demand and some of the restrictions.”
.@Emirates Chief Operating Officer Adel al Redha tells @CNBC that the airline aims to serve 100% of its network destinations by summer 2021. pic.twitter.com/qjlnZTLwWx
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) August 20, 2020
While Al Redha admitted that he didn’t think the “worst was behind us”, he noted the “positive trend” that has been occurring for the airline. As of next month, flights to 75 destinations will have recommenced for Emirates.
“If I compare our performance now with a month ago, we have almost doubled the number of passengers we have been carrying onboard our aircraft, as transit or terminating in Dubai,” he said.
In order to ensure the safety of both their employees and passengers, the Dubai-based airline has implemented a number of measures including full PPE being worn by crew, sanitising packs being given out to all travellers and passengers must wear masks and gloves during transit.
Similarly, those who are flying into Dubai, whether as a tourist, resident, or connecting passenger, you need to undergo a COVID-19 test within 96 hours of travelling.
Those coming from will need to have an additional test done upon landing in Dubai and self-isolate until they receive their results.
Emirates can also assist residence visa holders with acquiring the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) before booking their flight back.
Children under the age of 12 or with moderate to severe disabilities are exempt from PCR testing.
Keep an eye on the Emirates website for more helpful information, including a recent announcement that the airline is now offering free cover for COVID-19 medical costs.
