US drops testing rules

In a huge boost for the outbound travel market to the United States, COVID testing requirements for passengers entering the country have been scrapped (TD breaking news).

In welcoming the developments over the weekend, AFTA said the decision by the US Government removed “a massive brake” on the popular US leisure and business travel market.

“North America is our third largest and most important market in terms of outbound travel for both corporate and leisure,” CEO Dean Long said.

“The fact...you can get on a flight to the United States without having to go through the rigmarole of a negative coronavirus test will unleash significant pent-up demand from Australians visiting the US for fun and for business,” he added.

Long also said the dropping of tests to the US would be a major boon for travel agents, pointing out that more than 70% of international travel is booked by Australians through advisors.

The decision is also expected to increase volumes of American tourists to Australia, as many US residents previously feared being left stranded overseas because of the stringent testing policy.

The measure has been in place since early 2021, with the removal subject to a 90-day review which could see testing return if new variants arise.