Etihad introduces at-home Covid-19 tests for passengers before flights

Several destinations around the world now require travellers to have negative Covid-19 test results before they fly

Travellers flying with Etihad Airways can now take a Covid-19 test in their homes.

The national airline of the UAE had joined up with Mediclinic Middle East to test passengers.

Travellers leaving the UAE do not need to take a coronavirus test before flying out of the country, but several destinations around the world now require travellers to have negative Covid-19 test results before they fly.

These rules vary by destination so travellers should check country requirements before booking a flight, and plan to take a test if required.

All passengers flying to any Etihad destination from Abu Dhabi can make use of the new at-home testing service. The

National contacted Etihad for more information on the cost of these tests.

“Enabling home PCR testing will remove much unnecessary stress from the travel experience during this challenging period,” said Dr Nadia Bastaki, vice president of medical services at Etihad.

David Hadley, chief executive of Mediclinic Middle East, said all testing would be carried out by trained professionals. The company’s dedicated Covid-19 testing laboratories in Abu Dhabi and Dubai mean that results are available quickly and accurately, he said.

After booking a flight with Etihad, travellers should contact Mediclinic to book an athome testing appointment. This can be done over the phone, online or by email at etihad@mediclinic.ae.

Many destinations require the PCR test to be conducted at a specific time before travel and Etihad recommends appointments take place at least 48 hours before departure.

A health professional will visit a passenger’s home and conduct the test, which takes only a few seconds. Results will be available within 24 hours. Travellers can also opt to book an appointment at a Mediclinic centre in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Al Ain.

If the test comes back negative, travellers can print their results and continue with any holiday plans. For destinations that require a negative Covid-19 test before departure, Etihad check-in staff will review test results before completing passenger check-in.

If results are positive, travellers need to rearrange their flight for a future date. The Department of Health will be informed and the patient will need to follow strict quarantine guidelines in accordance with UAE regulations.

The measures are part of the Etihad Wellness programme, which also includes specially trained Wellness Ambassadors on board every flight to care for passengers’ health.

In Dubai, dnata’s airport hospitality brand Marhaba offers home Covid-19 tests through Mediclinic in partnership with Dubz baggage services.