Delta and KLM are to launch a Covid testing trial that will allow passengers travelling from Atlanta to Amsterdam to be able to skip quarantine.
The programme, which will start on 15 December, involves passengers taking three tests – a PCR test five days before they plan to arrive in Amsterdam, a second, rapid antigen test at Atlanta airport and a third PCR test on arrival at Schiphol.
Only passengers with negative test results will be accepted on-board; other services between the cities are available for anyone not wishing to take a test.
The trial will last three weeks and will operate on four flights each week between the two cities, with Delta and KLM operating two frequencies each. If the trial is successful the airlines hope to extend the programme to other markets.
The trial has been put together by the airlines in conjunction with the Dutch government, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
Passengers who get negative results from all three tests will be able to avoid the ten-day quarantine normally required for those arriving in the Netherlands.
“Until an approved working vaccine is available worldwide, this testing programme represents the first step towards the international travel industry’s recovery. I am grateful for the constructive collaboration with our partners Delta Air Lines and the Schiphol Group and to have the support of the Dutch government to make this unique Covid-free travel corridor trial possible,” said Pieter Elbers, KLM’s president & CEO.
“All stakeholders need to work together on a systematic approach to rapid testing and build these tests into the passenger experience, so quarantine measures can be lifted as quickly as possible. This is fundamental to restore passengers’ and governments’ confidence in air travel.”
“Creating Covid-free travel corridors, in addition to the multiple layers of safety and hygiene measures we have implemented through the Delta CareStandard, will provide customers – and authorities – greater confidence that they can stay healthy when flying,” said Steve Sear, Delta president – international and executive VP, global sales.
The scheme is open to anyone permitted to travel to the Netherlands for essential reasons, such as for certain specified work, health and education reasons. Passengers transiting via Amsterdam to other countries will still be required to follow entry requirements and any mandatory quarantine in place at their final destination.
The UK has announced that certain, 'high value' business travellers arriving in England will be exempt from quarantine with effect from 5 December but some argue that the restrictions will make it difficult to police. The UK government's 'test to release' scheme begins on 15 December which will allow those who get a negative test five days after arrival can end their quarantine early.