Update: Dubai’s Emirates to waive change penalties for all bookings made until March 31

Dubai Emirates has updated its waiver policy to extend to all bookings made until the end of March.

Passengers who decide to change their travel plans due to the evolving Covid-19 situation can do so for travel within an 11-month date range in the same booking class without change penalties.

The airline will permit one change for free. Difference in fare, if applicable, applies.

The policy covers all existing destinations across the Emirates network, a statement said.

Previously, the airline had only extended the waiver to new booking made between March 7 and March 31.

The move comes even as governments across the world impose travel restrictions to curb the rapid spread of the coronavirus. Regionally, the UAE and Saudi Arabia have also stopped flights to certain destinations and have urged citizens and residents to avoid travelling.

Adnan Kazim, chief commercial officer, Emirates Airline, said: “We want our customers to feel fully supported, comfortable and confident when making travel plans, while offering them the best fares, without incurring change fees should they decide to delay or adjust dates.

“The situation remains dynamic and we will continue to look at ways to provide flexibility, convenience and peace of mind for our customers.”

Emirates is also improving its aircraft cleaning process by implementing enhanced disinfecting procedures after flights from destinations most affected by Covid-19, the statement said.

If the airline is alerted to any suspect or confirmed cases of infectious diseases, teams will be immediately deployed for a deeper cleaning to thoroughly disinfect all cabins of that aircraft with stronger, approved chemicals.

Across all its aircraft, Emirates utilises HEPA filters, which are proven to remove more than 99 per cent of viruses in the cabin environment. If there is a suspected case onboard, Emirates will replace all the HEPA filters on the aircraft.

Read: Coronavirus impact: Emirates makes operational changes, steps up aircraft cleaning

Meanwhile members of Emirates loyalty programme Skywards, impacted by the outbreak of the coronavirus through imposed travel restrictions and flight reductions, will be offered flexible options, the statement said.

Skywards platinum, gold and silver members can maintain their current status by fulfilling 80 per cent of their tier travel requirements between March 31 and June 30, 2020. Also, Skywards members booked to travel between March 1 and June 30, 2020 will be able to benefit from an additional 20 per cent bonus tier miles.