The huge changes coming to Qantas and Jetstar as airlines move to stop the spread of coronavirus
- Qantas and Jetstar have announced a new range of safety measures for flights
- Program will be rolled out from June 12 to prepare for return of domestic travel
- Pre-flight and on-board measures will be implemented to stop COVID-19 spread
- Here’s how to help people impacted by Covid-19
Qantas and Jetstar have announced a new range of safety measures including free face masks and sequenced boarding to ensure travellers fly safely during the coronavirus pandemic.
The airlines will roll out the 'Fly Well' program from June 12 as Australian states and territories prepare for the return of domestic travel.
Before take-off, customers will check in online or through an app and will be strongly encouraged to use the self-service bag drop.
Qantas and Jetstar have announced a new range of safety measures during the coronavirus pandemic including face masks for all passengers
There will be hand sanitising stations at departure gates (pictured) to stop the spread of COVID-19
Travellers will be given a face mask for peace-of-mind and sanitising wipes to clean their seat belt, tray and armrest.
Passengers will also be asked to avoid moving around cabin and staggered boarding and disembarkation will be implemented to avoid crowding.
Qantas Group Medical Director Dr Ian Hosegood said the risk of catching coronavirus on a plane is 'already extremely low'.
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'That's due to a combination of factors, including the cabin air filtration system, the fact people don't sit face-to-face and the high backs of aircraft seats acting as a physical barrier,' he said.
'Social distancing on an aircraft isn't practical the way it is on the ground, and given the low transmission risk on board, we don't believe it's necessary in order to be safe.
'The extra measures we're putting place will reduce the risk even further.'
Staggered boarding and disembarkation will be implemented to avoid crowding
The airlines will roll out the 'Fly Well' program from June 12 as Australian states and territories prepare for the return of domestic travel
Qantas and Jetstar aircrafts are already fitted with hospital-grade HEPA filters, which remove 99.9 per cent of all particles including viruses.
On average, air inside the cabin is refreshed every five minutes.
All passengers are encouraged to download the government's COVIDSafe app, while airline employees are required to follow strict hygiene protocols.
Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said safety is at the core of the airlines operations.
Travellers will be given a face mask for peace-of-mind and sanitising wipes to clean their seat belt, tray and armrest
Before take-off, customers will check in online or through an app and will be strongly encouraged to use the self-service bag drop
'From the early rescue flights we operated right into Wuhan and then more recently bringing Australians back from places like the US and Europe, we have a lot of experience at creating a safe cabin environment for passengers and crew,' he said.
'We're relying on the cooperation of passengers to help make these changes work for everyone's benefit, and we thank them in advance for that.
'Given the great job Australians have done at flattening the curve, we're confident they'll respond positively to these temporary changes to how we fly.'
Mr Joyce said they would continue to work with the government as well as monitor the roll out of the safety measures.
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