Budget carrier AirAsia Philippines said on Monday, April 19, that it has secured COVID-19 vaccines for its over 1,500 employees.

Vaccination will start in May, the airline said, identifying priority employees such as ground staff, pilots, cabin crew, and other workers with direct engagement with guests.

AirAsia said it partnered with the government and private entities to secure the initial doses, but it did not disclose which vaccine brands were secured.

“AirAsia recognizes that the aviation sector plays a critical role as economic and tourism drivers, and we know that getting the COVID-19 vaccine is the next necessary phase of recovery,” said AirAsia Philippines chief executive officer Ricky Isla.

Isla already took his first vaccine shot with the government as a senior citizen.

IATA Travel Pass

AirAsia also said it supports the Department of Tourism’s plan to adopt the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Travel Pass.

The airline said it has an “ongoing regional integration” for its airline operation centers to follow the implementation of IATA’s pass.

IATA developed the Travel Pass app to boost governments’ confidence in opening borders. With the app, users can create a digital COVID-19 passport where requirements for passengers – such as testing and vaccination – can be easily verified by authorities.

AirAsia Philippines spokesperson Steve Dailisan said the mobile travel pass will enable swift coordination between authorities and airline companies.

“It is also important to make sure that the process is hassle-free for passengers so that they are encouraged to travel and help reboot trade and tourism,” Dailisan said. – Rappler.com