In a travel update published on its website on November 4, the airline clarified that the requirement also applies to passengers connecting through the United States. Travelers whose final destination is another country must therefore complete the necessary declaration when their itinerary includes a connection through the US.

The attestation requires passengers to confirm that they have not been present in the Democratic Republic of the Congo during the 21 days before boarding. Emirates stressed that the information provided must be accurate and truthful, in accordance with the applicable US travel requirements.

Each passenger needs a separate attestation. Emirates instructed customers to print the form available on the US government website, complete and sign it, and present the physical copy at check-in for verification. Preparing the document in advance allows passengers to have it ready for the required checks.

For customers connecting through the United States, Emirates said verification may take place at the boarding gate. Passengers should therefore have the completed document available at the relevant verification point, including when checks take place after the initial check-in stage of their journey.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains that the requirement is a public health measure intended to reduce the risk of Ebola being introduced through air travel. Passengers who fail to provide the required attestation will be denied boarding unless officially exempt. Knowingly providing false information may also result in legal penalties.

Source: Emirates’ official website and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).