RIYADH, 13 April — Saudi Airlines, the national flight carrier of Saudi Arabia, announced that it will start testing the digital travel and health pass developed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) on flights from Kuala Lumpur to Jeddah. Trials start on 19 April, said the airlines.
IATA digital pass is a phone application that allows passengers to securely manage their travel information and documents, to comply with all official precautionary requirements to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The pass includes information like flight details, personal information, and passport data and it can save verified COVID-19 test results and proof of vaccination. It can also allow passengers to share required information with testing labs and airlines.
Amid security fears, IATA said that all users’ data will remain confidential and will be stored in an encrypted form locally and on the phone. If the application is deleted, the same will happen to all the stored user’s data.
The aim is to help ensure passengers have a safe and seamless travel experience, as part of the efforts to ensure a safe return to international travel and support the recovery of the aviation sector from the effects of the pandemic. During the trial and testing process, IATA will work to develop the app for use across the airline’s network.
The trial will continue until May 17. Travelers are encouraged to use the app but it is not a requirement. During the trial period passengers must still carry traditional documentation, printed or in digital form, that shows the result of a PCR test by an authorized clinic, as immigration and health authorities might require it. In addition, the travel pass does not replace existing travel or entry requirements in Saudi Arabia, including possession of a valid passport and visa, if applicable. Visit www.saudia.com/travel-pass for more information.
Source: Arab News/Al Arabiya
