Airlines query costly PCR tests

THE head of global airline industry body IATA has hit out at the high cost of Covid-19 testing, calling for the industry to challenge whether PCR tests are necessary.

European airlines are counting on a travel rebound this summer after months of Covid-19 restrictions. But any demand for PCR tests that can cost more than the short flights themselves threatens the recovery.

“We’re seeing evidence of profiteering by people who have jumped on the testing bandwagon,” Willie Walsh, IATA’s new director general, said at a virtual industry conference on Tuesday (20).

PCR tests, the so-called gold standard test, can cost around £100 in Britain.

Airline bosses, led by EasyJet chief executive Johan Lundgren, say PCR tests will make travel too expensive for many. They are calling for authorities to instead allow travellers to use lateral flow or antigen tests which are much cheaper and give results more quickly.

Walsh said the tests were “just as effective” when there are other measures in place to help manage risk.