Emirates is taking extra steps that go above and beyond industry and regulatory requirements to ensure its customers’ health and comfort in response to the Covid-19 outbreak.

On all aircraft departing from its hub in Dubai, Emirates has implemented enhanced cleaning and complete disinfection of all cabins as a precaution.

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.

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.

To complete this thorough cleaning process within an hour while the aircraft is preparing for its next mission, requires a team of 18 trained cleaners on a Boeing 777, and a team of 36 for an A380.

In a 24-hour period on an average day, some 248 aircraft go through this process.