As airlines attempt to ramp up their flight schedules, the pressure is on to increase safety amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Qatar Airways is the latest carrier to introduce Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for flight attendants, which includes a full disposal body suit, safety goggles, gloves and a face mask.
Other cautionary measures are aimed at reducing interactions between crew and passengers, such as closing all social areas onboard aircraft and serving Business Class meals on a tray instead of the usual table set up.
From Monday 25 May, passengers will also be required to wear face coverings during flights and are advised to bring their own “for fit and comfort purposes”.
Qatar says large bottles of hand sanitiser will be placed in the galleys and made available for both cabin crew and passengers.
Qatar Airways’ chief executive, His Excellency Mr Akbar Al Baker, said: “We have introduced these additional safety measures onboard our flights to ensure the continued health and wellbeing of our passengers and cabin crew, and to limit the spread of coronavirus.
“As an airline, we maintain the highest possible hygiene standards to ensure that we can fly people home safely during this time and provide even greater reassurance that safety is our number one priority.”
The airline says it is currently operating the world’s largest international network, offering flights to more than 30 destinations around the world.
Hamad International Airport, Qatar Airways’ base, is also deploying fully autonomous “disinfectant robots” that emit concentrated UV-C light, which can help kill infectious microorganisms.
Qatar isn’t the first airline to adopt stricter PPE measures for staff.
Philippines Airlines and AirAsia have both launched uniforms that incorporate PPE.
Philippines Airlines’ uniforms, designed by Edwin Tan, are reportedly inspired by hospital gowns; AirAsia’s uniform was created by Puey Quinones.
American carriers have also been asking passengers to don masks and face coverings, following advice given by the CDC.
Both American Airlines and Jetblue reportedly have policies stating that travellers can be denied boarding if they refuse to wear a face covering.
