United Airlines is giving travellers a glimpse into what the future of air travel could look like, as it rolls out a one-stop-shop where customers can seamlessly find, book, and get results for COVID-19 tests.
The airline has introduced the new tool as a way to help travellers navigate the fragmented complete COVID-19 testing and vaccine requirements for the destinations they are travelling to. The tool is accessible on the airline’s online Travel-Ready Center, and can also be accessed through the United app.
Customers can choose from more than 200 COVID-19 testing providers across the U.S., book appointments and receive confirmation whether their test results meet their destination's requirements. In the weeks and months ahead, the airline plans to expand availability to more U.S. cities.
It's also adding access to international testing sites for customers flying to the U.S., although the company has not given a list of countries that will be included.
Once the test is validated, customers will see a status indicator informing them that they are "travel-ready" and receive their mobile boarding pass.
Since launching in JAN, the airline has processed more than 275,000 COVID-19 tests through the Travel-Ready Center.
"We continue to look for innovative solutions that make travel easier and safer for our customers and employees," said United's Chief Customer Officer Toby Enqvist.
"This new feature enables customers to travel with confidence knowing they can quickly locate a testing provider if they need one, schedule an appointment and get the results they need – all within the United Travel-Ready Center experience."
United says it is the only airline that offers these services as part of an integrated experience within its app and website. When travel between Canada and the U.S. re-opens Canadian travellers could find this program - and potentially others as international travel picks up - makes the 'new normal' requirements of travel more seamless.
