Qatar Airways has introduced a new regulation for all of its passengers - as well as wearing a face mask when they travel, they will now also be required to wear a face shield.
The only time the shield can be removed is while passengers are eating and drinking and passengers are required to wear it when boarding and disembarking the plane, too.
The plastic shields will be given to passengers during the boarding process and are part of a hygiene kit that includes hand sanitiser, gloves and a face mask.
The shield, which will be available in both adult and kids sizes, will only be worn by economy passengers, those in business class will not need to wear the shield or a face mask.
"Business Class customers are asked to wear their face shield and mask onboard at their own discretion, as they enjoy more space and privacy," the airline said.
Business class customers are more shielded than their economy counterparts, as Qatar’s long-haul flights are fitted with QSuites which have closable doors and partitions around the doors.
The cabin crew will also be required to wear extra protective gear, including gloves, a face mask, safety glasses and a disposable gown worn over uniforms.
After each flight, all the onboard linen and blankets will be washed, dried and pressed at microbial lethal temperatures, while its headsets will be rigorously sanitised, the airline added.
Most airlines are recommending passengers wear face masks before, during and after their flight, but Qatar is the first to add the extra face shield layer.
