mid the COVID-19 pandemic, low-cost carrier AirAsia introduced on Friday new personal protective equipment (PPE) for its cabin crews.
Designed in collaboration with Filipino fashion designer Puey Quiñones, the PPE suits, which are made of "breathable yet sturdy material" and launched during a recovery flight from Bangkok to Manila, embrace the airline's signature red-hot color and have reportedly been approved by the Philippines' Department of Health.
"AirAsia launches PPEs to protect its cabin crews. Designed by me" Quiñones shared on social media.
According to his Instagram account, the Los Angeles-based designer has been busy designing and manufacturing PPE suits for hospitals as well as brands such as AirAsia following the outbreak.
AirAsia Philippines vice chair Sheila Romero is quoted as saying that the suits' "fusion of fashion and safety will define the new standards of flying today".
Flight attendants will be required to wear the PPE on all of the carrier's domestic and international flights.
Airlines are among the businesses hit hardest by the pandemic. Singapore Airlines recently announced the cancellation of 96 percent of its scheduled flights until the end of June, meanwhile Richard Branson is reportedly seeking a buyer for Virgin Atlantic Airways Ltd. as he struggles to secure a 500 million pound (US$618 million) government bailout.
AirAsia Group itself recently announced an extension of the suspension of its flight operations in Indonesia until May 7, and the Philippines until May 1, following approval from the authorities. (kes)
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