JetBlue announced today that it is introducing an ultraviolet light system to help clean the surfaces of the plane’s cabin. The carrier is testing this technology at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.
Safety is a priority
According to a press release seen by Simple Flying, the Long Island City-based airline has purchased eight units of the Honeywell UV Cabin System. the The device can move around an airplane cabin in less than 10 minutes.
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Ultraviolet light can significantly reduce certain viruses and bacteria when properly applied at the correct levels. Further, Preliminary results from studies by Boston University and Italian medical professionals and academics show that UV-C light can inactivate SARS-CoV-2 at prescribed doses in a laboratory setting. Meanwhile, more studies are underway for other areas.
JetBlue President and Chief Operating Officer Joanna Geraghty spoke about how this system will take the airline’s hygiene measures to the next level. This introduction is part of the company’s broader security program.
“With the safety of our crew and customers as our top priority, JetBlue’s Safety From Scratch initiative maintains a layered approach to safety by ensuring healthy crew members, providing flexibility, adding space, reducing contact points and maintaining surfaces clean and disinfected. “ Geraghty said, according to the press release.
“As we seek to add additional layers of protection through the use of state-of-the-art technology, we have identified the Honeywell UV Cabin System as a potential game changer when it comes to efficiently aiding our efforts to disinfect surfaces on board.” .
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Even after the coronavirus pandemic slows, JetBlue has expressed that it will continue many of these practices. Other security measures in force include:
- Mandatory face masks during check-in, boarding and on board;
- Block intermediate seats on larger planes and aisle seats on smaller planes for those not traveling together (until September 8);
- Require all travelers to complete a health statement;
- Implement a back-and-forth approach process for most customers to minimize passage in the hallway;
- Provide contactless check-in, baggage tagging and boarding experiences using the JetBlue mobile app and automatic boarding gates for many flights;
- The use of HEPA air filters in the aircraft, which removes 99.97% or more of particles, bacteria and viruses.
A changing environment
In total, the global health crisis has forced airlines to massively intensify their cleaning and safety procedures in all their operations. However, these measures will greatly help passengers to travel with confidence, even after the pandemic ends.
What do you think about this UV cleaning system that JetBlue is testing? Also, do you think this is a good move from the airline? Let us know what you think of this initiative in the comments section.
