With the spike in omicron affected cases, travellers are testing positive vary rapidly, and the new rule initiated by Middle East carriers offer free rescheduling for the COVID affected travellers. By Yagnoseni Das
Flying to the Middle East during the current COVID period has become easier as passengers will now be allowed a one-time free date change. This is imposed on those who test positive in an RT-PCR test prior to flying. Until now, passengers who tested positive for COVID-19 before flying had to bear the financial loss of a cancelled flight, but that is about to change with this new rule.
Here’s what you need to know about the Middle East’s new air policy
This rule for Middle Eastern carriers, however, only applies to rescheduling but not on cancellations. Additionally, the offer is valid for those who test positive for the virus at the airport and wish to change their flight date. According to Times of India, there were not many cases previously, but the numbers have changed with the emergence of the Omicron variant. Therefore, passengers are testing positive even within 48 hours of receiving a negative RT-PCR report, which is a cause for concern.
However, now, passengers travelling to Middle Eastern countries must undergo two tests now. One should be done within 48 hours before the flight, and the other should be done at the airport six hours before departure.
The positive news about this new rule is that passengers who reschedule their flights will not be charged any additional fees for the same booking class that is available. This is true even in a case where the fare at the time of booking is higher. However, if a passenger wishes to reschedule and book a flight in a higher class, they’ll have to shell out the difference. But if a passenger is looking for a refund instead of rescheduling, they’ll be charged a cancellation fee.
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