American Airlines expands pre-flight COVID testing to all US destinations with travel restrictions and offers $129 at-home kit for passengers to mail in a test swab three days before travel
American Airlines said on Tuesday it is expanding pre-flight COVID-19 testing for all U.S. destinations that have travel restrictions.
The test priced at $129, which includes a medical professional virtually assisting and express shipping both ways, will be available for purchase for passengers traveling on or after December 12.
In collaboration with at-home testing partner LetsGetChecked, American said it will provide testing for travel to cities, states and territories currently under COVID-19 travel restrictions, including Puerto Rico.
In November, the airline had expanded its at-home testing to new destinations in the Caribbean, Latin America and Hawaii.
American Airlines said on Tuesday it is expanding pre-flight COVID-19 testing for all U.S. destinations that have travel restrictions
In collaboration with at-home testing partner LetsGetChecked, American said it will provide testing for travel to cities, states and territories currently under COVID-19 travel restrictions
An American Airlines spokeswoman told DailyMail.com that passengers would not be required to take the tests before flying, adding that the tests were being offered as a convenience to passengers who wanted them.
Some cities and states with restrictions on travelers allow a shortened quarantine period for people who show negative results on a COVID-19 test before arriving.
For example, New York allows travelers to exit quarantine after four days with a negative test result both before and after travel. Otherwise, they are subject to a mandatory 14-day quarantine.
'We've made great strides to help open international travel with our testing partners, and we recognize the need for similar domestic travel solutions,' said Alison Taylor, Chief Customer Officer for American Airlines, in a statement.
'As travel requirements continue to quickly evolve, we're simplifying the research and COVID-19 testing fulfillment process for an overall more seamless travel experience.'
Passengers who use LetsGetChecked are advised to order a test kit at least five days before departure.
Passengers who use LetsGetChecked are advised to order a test kit at least five days before departure. The $129 price includes express shipping and a video consultation call
Depending on the destination, the test may require a video call for observation to verify the identity of the person taking the test, and ensure they use the nasal swab correctly.
Then, passengers will send in their sample at least three days before the flight for a PCR lab analysis.
The cost of the test includes shipping both ways as well as the observation call, if required.
'We are extremely proud of our partnership with American Airlines and the opportunity to support their proactive safety measures,' said Peter Foley, CEO and Founder of LetsGetChecked, in a statement.
'Our at-home COVID-19 test exemplifies our mission to empower people to take an active role in their health whilst also allowing for a safe return to travel during this challenging time.'
US destinations with COVID-19 travel restrictions
The following states and cities have restrictions on travel and quarantine requirements. AA flights to these destinations will offer pre-flight testing.
Alaska
Connecticut
District of Columbia
Chicago
Hawaii
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
New Hampshire
New York
Pennsylvania
Puerto Rico
Rhode Island
Vermont