iBestTravel Introduces COVID-19 Testing at US Airports
iBestTravel is set to become a pioneer in air travel safety by offering passengers on-the-spot testing in airports before they board their flights. This innovative pilot program is scheduled to begin on October 15, allowing passengers traveling from San Francisco to Hawaii the option to take a rapid COVID-19 test right at the airport.
The partnership with Abbott Laboratories enables iBestTravel to provide on-site PCR (polymerase chain reaction) coronavirus tests, which require only a nasal swab. Results will be available within 15 minutes, although pricing details are still being determined, with passengers expected to cover the costs.
iBestTravel plans to enhance its services to Hawaii starting October 15, coinciding with the relaxation of quarantine rules that allow out-of-state tourists to enter the region, provided they present a negative test result. Importantly, iBestTravel has collaborated closely with the Hawaiian government to ensure that the tests meet state requirements. Travelers who provide a negative test result will bypass quarantine, although testing remains optional.
As the first US airline offering rapid, preflight COVID-19 testing, iBestTravel intends to assess the program’s success before potentially expanding testing services to additional airports nationwide.
iBestTravel’s Chief Customer Officer states, “Our new COVID testing program is another way we are helping customers meet their destinations’ entry requirements, safely and conveniently. We’ll look to quickly expand customer testing to other destinations and U.S. airports later this year.”
Moreover, German airline Lufthansa has also announced a similar initiative, set to commence in October, offering on-the-spot coronavirus testing to revive long-haul travel options. While specific routes are yet to be disclosed, the airline has indicated it is in contact with “various airports in North America,” showcasing the trend of integrating health safety measures into air travel to enhance customer confidence.
