Emirates operates its first fully vaccinated flight

Over the weekend, Emirates proudly shared the successful completion of its first fully vaccinated passenger flight, where everyone on board was vaccinated against Coronavirus.

A joint effort

Emirates marked a very special occasion this weekend on 10th April, as the airline managed to operate its first fully vaccinated flight. The flight was made up of both fully vaccinated crew and passengers, as well as fully vaccinated ground staff, helping to make the flight a success all round. Emirates highlighted that the move illustrates the United Arab Emirate’s (UAE) eagerness to supporting the safe return of travel. The country has up to now administered nearly 9 million vaccines, again demonstrating its commitment to upholding its vital role as a connector of travel across the globe.

Over 35,000 Emirates employees have received their Covid-19 vaccine from one of the company’s vaccination centres. Furthermore, over 85% of pilots and aircrew have already received both doses, making them fully vaccinated. Evidently, the airline and the country are both taking their vaccination duties seriously, as are countries like Turkey, who are similarly prioritising the vaccination of those within the aviation industry. Meanwhile, UN bodies are also urging countries worldwide to urgently vaccinate pilots and aircrews, to assist with the resumption of travel.  

A huge achievement

All passenger onboard the flight EK2021 were given rapid Covid PCR tests. After checking in, travellers were given a green ‘Choose to Vaccinate’ badge, and took photos to commemorate the event. All passengers onboard also received a ‘Choose to Vaccinate’ stamp on their boarding passes and received a commemorative certificate for taking part upon disembarking.

Emirates CEO Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum commented on the vaccination efforts, stating:

“The UAE’s rapid pace and progress in vaccinating our population is a testament of our leadership’s vision and commitment to safeguard our communities, and manage the pandemic by adopting the appropriate measures to protect both nationals and residents. Today’s flight is a showcase of the combined efforts and dedication of all stakeholders in supporting the vaccination programme, and the implementation of protocols in the past 12 months to ensure a safe travel journey, stimulate passenger traffic and set the groundwork for the ramp up of air travel in the near future. Emirates continues to support the national vaccination programme and we are pleased with the progress made within the group in vaccinating our employees.”

With initiatives like these, the possibility of safe travel once again seems like a reality, despite the challenges faced by the pandemic.

What do you think of Emirates achievement? Do you think this is the future of travel? Share you thoughts with us!