United introduces passenger health assessments

United Airlines has become the first major US carrier to ask all passengers to complete a health self-assessment during check-in. 

The Ready-to-Fly checklist asks passengers to confirm they have not experienced Covid-19-related symptoms in 14 days prior to flying. The assessment is part of United CleanPlus, the company’s health and safety programme.

Dr James Merlino, chief clinical transformation officer at Cleveland Clinic, a non-profit academic medical centre and a United CleanPlus advisor said:

"Our health experts are pleased to play a role in helping people travel more safely and we worked closely with United to develop a health self-assessment for its customers to better ensure precautions are taken before beginning their journey."

The checklist appears during the digital check-in process on the United mobile app, United.com and on a United kiosk or by reviewing and verbally confirming with an agent at the airport when receiving a boarding pass.

The checklist includes coronavirus symptoms and affirms passengers are willing to abide by the airline’s other safety protocols, including wearing a face covering.

In April, United became the first major US airline to require flight attendants to wear a facemask while on duty, and beginning in May, expanded that to include all employees and customers on board.