AirAsia Philippines to vaccinate over 1,500 Filipino employees against COVID-19

Aviation Updates Philippines – Budget carrier AirAsia Philippines announced on Monday it plans to vaccinate over 1,500 Filipino 'Allstars' against COVID-19 beginning next month.

Photo from HoshiSpotter

According to AirAsia, the airline has identified a priority list for inoculation. Frontline employees who have direct engagements with airline passengers, such as pilots, cabin crew, and ground staff, will be prioritized in their vaccination program.

This initiative comes as a step towards rebuilding confidence among passengers highlighting the highest standards on safety and customer service.

The low-cost airline has partnered with government agencies and private entities to facilitate the procurement of the vaccines for those included in the priority lists.

There is currently an ongoing internal information campaign amongst AirAsia's Allstars to encourage them to take the anti-COVID-19 shots.

AirAsia Philippines Chief Executive Officer Ricky Isla recently took the jab against COVID-19 since he is under the A2 priority list or senior citizens.

Isla said: “As an industry leader, we must help bring accurate information to the public, especially our employees, so that they may be able to make an informed choice and the best decision of protecting themselves against COVID-19.

“It takes everyone to break the COVID-19 chain. I took the shot that is readily available because I believe that it's our little share of putting an end to this pandemic. It is our responsibility to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and most importantly the people we serve.

“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.”

Meanwhile, AirAsia said it also supports the government's plan to adopt the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Travel Pass, which serves as a digital passport detailing a passenger's COVID-19 health status.

AirAsia Philippines Spokesperson Steve Dailisan said: “Although nothing is final yet, what’s certain is that AirAsia will fully support all measures that will further enhance safety and rebuild confidence in air travel."