The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced its first partnership to launch the IATA Travel Pass for passengers of UAE flagship carriers.
With the initial phase starting in April, Emirates customers flying from Dubai will be able to share their test results or vaccination certificates directly with the company, through an app.
The IATA Travel Pass is a mobile application that helps passengers easily and securely manage their journey, in accordance with safety requirements for COVID-19 testing and vaccination.
IATA Travel Pass employs four standalone yet interoperable modules,
dispensing information about entry requirements, authorized laboratories and test or vaccination centers; issuing verified certificates and digital passports; and allowing passengers to share their test results and vaccination certificates while traveling, using their mobile device.
The initial launch of the Travel Pass will be offered to Etihad passengers on selected flights from Abu Dhabi, and if the first phase is successful, it will also be operated on flights to other Etihad destinations. Prior to the full launch, Emirates will implement the first phase in Dubai, to validate pre-flight PCR tests.
At this initial stage, which is expected to begin in April, Emirates passengers traveling from Dubai will be able to share their check-in status directly with the airline before even arriving at the airport, via the app, with the details automatically updated on the check-in system.
“COVID-19 tests and vaccinations will be key to get the world flying again. Since 1 August 2020, Etihad is the only airline requiring a pre-departure negative PCR test result for all passengers worldwide, and again on arrival in Abu Dhabi… A high priority for Etihad is for our guests to have an easy, secure and efficient way to identify and verify their information. Being one of the first airlines globally working with IATA as a pioneer partner on the IATA Travel Pass is a big step forward for Etihad’s guests and for the industry,” said Mohammad Al Bulooki, Chief Operating Officer, Etihad Aviation Group.
Adel Al Redha, Emirates’ Chief Operating Officer, said: “While international travel remains as safe as ever, there are new protocols and travel requirements with the current global pandemic We have worked with IATA on this innovative solution to simplify and digitally transmit the information that is required by countries and governments into our airline systems, in a secure and efficient manner. We are proud to be one of the first airlines in the world to pilot this initiative, which will provide an enhanced customer experience and conveniently facilitate our customers’ travel needs.”
