JAL Offers COVID-19 Coverage
The airline will cover €150,000 in medical costs for travelers, plus a 24-hour support line for customers experiencing symptoms
Japan Airlines has announced that starting Dec. 23, it will offer a free service called JAL COVID-19 Cover that includes coverage for medical costs associated with a coronavirus diagnosis of up to €150,000 ($182,000).
Additional coverage for self-isolation costs and repatriation is also included for travelers requiring assistance after a positive diagnosis. The service also includes a global 24-hour support line in English and Japanese available to assist customers who are exhibiting symptoms.
JAL COVID-19 Cover services will be offered beginning Dec. 23 for travel through the end of June 2021. Passengers will be automatically covered for up to 31 days starting from the day of outbound travel.
As international flights gradually return to service, Hideo Ninomiya, JAL’s managing executive officer of passenger sales, said that the airline hopes the coverage with insurance company Allianz Travel “will provide reassurance to those that need to travel today.”
Patricia Moon, CEO of AWP Japan, an Allianz affiliate, said the company will leverage its experience in emergency assistance to travelers through its global medical network.
JAL is the latest global carrier to offer specific COVID-19 coverage for medical and other expenses; Emirates began the practice in July, and other carriers, including Virgin Atlantic, WestJet and Finnair, have since started providing similar services.
In addition to medical coverage, the global pandemic has fostered renewed interest among travelers in what other types of travel insurance are available and what the coverage entails.
