Emirates Airlines launches first rapid virus test for passengers

Aviation giant Emirates Airlines has launched a 10-minute coronavirus blood test for passengers departing from its Dubai home base, in what it claimed on Wednesday as a first for the industry.

A health official conducts on-site rapid COVID-19 tests for a passenger at Dubai International Airport.

The airline resumed limited passenger flights earlier this month after the UAE grounded all commercial aircraft.

The flights are open to foreign citizens who wish to leave the country, but no incoming passengers are allowed.

"Passengers on today's flight to Tunisia were all tested for COVID-19 (respiratory disease) before departing from Dubai," the airline said in a statement.

"Emirates is the first airline to conduct on-site rapid COVID-19 tests for passengers."

The blood tests were conducted by the Dubai Health Authority in the check-in area, with results coming out within 10 minutes.

Health officials pose for a photograph at Dubai International Airport.

"We are working on plans to scale up testing capabilities in the future and extend it to other flights," said Chief Operating Officer Adel Al Redha.

"This will enable us to conduct on-site tests and provide immediate confirmation for Emirates passengers travelling to countries that require COVID-19 test certificates."

Emirates has also said that cleaning and disinfection of planes will take place in Dubai after each flight.

The UAE has declared almost 5,000 coronavirus cases and 28 deaths.

It has imposed a sweeping crackdown, including the flight ban and closure of borders, shopping malls, entertainment centres and markets.

Agence France-Presse