Emirates will pay medical bills for travellers who become symptomatic with coronavirus while at their destination, at least until 31 October 2020.

If a passenger is diagnosed with Covid-19 while they are away from home, the Dubai-based airline says it will cover medical and repatriation expenses of up to €150,000 (£137,000).

In addition, it will pay quarantine costs of €100 (£91) per day to a maximum of two weeks, for the traveller and a companion. The carrier will also contribute up to €1,500 (£1,370) towards the cost of a funeral.

Coronavirus testing fees are not included.

Emirates says: “If you have tested positive for Covid-19 while you are abroad, you will benefit from repatriation assistance, assistance with medical and hospital costs and assistance with quarantine accommodation costs in an approved designated facility.”

This cover is provided free by the airline for all passengers in all classes, and does not require any registration or form-filling.

The airline’s chief executive, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, said: “We know people are yearning to fly as borders around the world gradually re-open, but they are seeking flexibility and assurances should something unforeseen happen during their travel.“

“It is an investment on our part, but we are putting our customers first, and we believe they will welcome this initiative.”

Separately, Emirates is resuming flights to the Seychelles from 1 August, coinciding with the country's re-opening to international tourists, and increasing flights to the Maldives from 4 August from five to six weekly, “to meet customer demand”.

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