Jakarta (ANTARA) - National flag-carrier Garuda Indonesia was rated among the safest airlines worldwide in terms of implementing health protocols during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The rating was given by Safe Travel Barometer, an independent audit agency that assess the implementation of COVID-19 health protocols in the global travel, tourism, and hospitality industry.

"This achievement holds significance for the continuance and our consistency in implementing health protocols optimally in all lines of flight operations to ensure that efforts to prevent COVID-19 transmission during flights have run maximally," Garuda Indonesia's President Director Irfan Setiaputra noted in a statement here on Saturday.

According to the audit, Garuda Indonesia is the only Indonesian airlines listed among the 20 safest airlines globally.

The ranking was based on a comprehensive assessment on the standard of implementation of health protocols and flight safety, wherein Garuda obtained a Safe Travel Score of 4 out of 5.0 among over 230 airlines evaluated worldwide.

Emirates topped the ranking, with a "Safe Travel Score" of 4.4.

Setiaputra affirmed that the increased standard of hygiene during flight services had become the main focus during the pandemic.

Hence, the state-run airlines remains steadfast in its commitment to offering safety and comfort to its passengers through staying consistent in applying health protocols and maintaining service standards that prioritize service quality and safety, including the physical distancing procedure during flights.

Safe Travel Barometer assessed that the health and safety standards expected by consumers encompassed aspects of passenger comfort, services, and experience.

The indicators used in the assessment comprise disinfection frequency, thermal screening, face masks, health declaration form, and staff face masks. Related news: Garuda recorded US$1.13 billion operating revenue as of Q3 2020
Related news: Garuda Indonesia's 70 percent aircraft grounded over COVID-19 pandemic


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Translator: Mentari DG, Sri Haryati
Editor: Suharto
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