JAL becomes first Japanese carrier to offer COVID insurance

Japan Airlines has become the first Japanese carrier to offer complimentary COVID cover for international passengers as it moves to boost traveler confidence. The new service, available from December 23 and backed by insurance giant Allianz Travel, includes coverage of up to €150,000 ($US182,370) in total medical costs for those who test positive during their travels. This includes the initial testing fee and subsequent medical treatment. Additional coverage for isolation costs, up to €100 a day for as many as 14 days, and repatriation is also included. The insurance is valid for 31 days after the first leg of an international flight or expires on return to the country of residence if that occurs earlier. READ: United to remove CO2 from the air in bold greenhouse pledge. “As international flights gradually return to service, the JAL Group has implemented key measures against COVID-19 to provide customers a safe and secure travel experience,’’ said Japan Airlines managing executive officer of passenger sales Hideo Ninomiya. “While it may take time to welcome back customers on a global scale, we hope this coverage with Allianz Travel will provide reassurance to those that need to travel today.” Other airlines to offer complimentary travel insurance include Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Etihad and Virgin Atlantic. The Cathay offer, announced earlier this month, includes medical and hospital costs of up to $US200,000 while overseas and allowance of up to $US100 per day for up to 14 days to cover quarantine costs. It also covers evacuation and repatriation. The Emirates coverage includes out-of-country and emergency evacuation costs of up to $US500,000 for COVID-19 contracted during the trip as well as for other medical emergencies. There are trip cancellation and curtailment costs of up to $US7500 for a number of reasons as well as $US150 a day for up to 14 consecutive days for quarantine outside a traveler’s country of residence. Some airlines, such as the Lufthansa Group, are offering COVID cover as a paid option that can complement existing travel insurance.