The Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) and SimpliFlying have launched ‘a new standard for airline health safety measures’.
With 33 airlines currently advancing through the review process, APEX and SimpliFlying have announced the first 12 launch airlines serving six continents that have fully completed the audit process and have been certified.
A 58-point checklist covers ten airline categories for submission verification, validation, and quarterly review certification process. The audit spans categories that include testing, tracing, on-the-ground procedures, in-flight measures, and co-branded partnerships that further airline product safety integrity.
For the initial launch, APEX and SimpliFlying worked with a broad cross-section of airlines ranging from ultra-low-cost-carriers to national carriers. After completing the initial audit with proof points, a step-by-step verification process occurs with airlines, followed by standard level notification.
Thus far, approximately one-third of all airlines have further enhanced their customer health safety standards after the initial audit review.
For taking hospital-grade health safety measures, Diamond status has been awarded to Air Canada, Alaska, Etihad, Qatar Airways, SAUDIA, Singapore Airlines, Turkish Airlines, United, and Virgin Atlantic.
For going above and beyond the Gold Standard, Platinum has been awarded to JetSmart, Spirit and Sri Lankan Airlines.
SimpliFlying and APEX have instituted a Board of airlines for further advancement of best customer health safety. A medical and scientific research working group from representing airlines will meet regularly to review the latest research focused upon advancements with recommendations centred around airline customers. APEX and SimpliFlying will then work with airlines to advance implementation for passengers in quarterly airline audit updates.
