Airline Taking Extra Steps to Ensure Health, Safety of Travelers

ENA March 17/2020 Ethiopian Airlines announced today that it is taking extra steps to ensure customers health by working closely with WHO, IATA, and Ministry of Health as it has always been its top priority to take full care of passengers. 
In a statement it issued today, Ethiopian said it is taking measures to ensure customers health and comfort, and provide passengers with confidence and peace of mind when planning their travels.

In response to the latest developments in the COVID-19 outbreak around the world, Ethiopian Airlines 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, the airline pointed out that is has placed its greatest focus on surface cleaning.

Ethiopian 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 statement added.

The cleaning process includes a comprehensive wipe down of all surfaces from windows, tray tables, seat-back screens, arm-rests, 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.

All of Ethiopian’s aircraft are fitted with HEPA cabin, air filters which are proven to filter out 99.97% of viruses. They also remove dust, allergen and microbes from the air recirculated into the cabin and cockpit, which helps to provide a safer, healthier and more comfortable environment for the passengers and crew.

“Hand sanitizer is available in our airports, lounges and on aircraft. Our customers and employees are welcome to use this as required. We also encourage regular hand washing,” the statement pointed out.

All the aircraft are equipped with bio-hazard kits and the airline has gloves, hand sanitizer and face masks to keep the staff and crew safe, it further stated.