Around the world, negative PCR tests continue to be a requirement to board an aeroplane.
Currently, in the UK, those who are double jabbed are required to take one PCR test on day 8 after entry and those not vaccinated are required to take two PCR tests on day 2 and day 8 after entry into the country.
The Daily mail in the United Kingdom has started a movement, campaigning for weeks for a fairer deal on COVID tests for travellers.
Earlier this month, the newspaper published an article that pointed out that the cost of covid tests can be up to five times the cost of flights. Claiming that “families are left with huge extra bills to travel abroad as it emerges screening is more expensive than return journey to Europe.”
Writers for the Daily Mail have pointed out that the pricing is unfair to families with average incomes and risks destroying the travel industry.
Beyond cost concerns, much speculation surrounds the validity of private organizations that offer fit to fly PCR tests.
There are currently around 426 private companies on the Government approved list of fit to fly PCR tests for the UK.
The average price for a single swab was found to be £91, with prices ranging from £20 to £400.
However, there have been growing reports of “rip-offs” as travellers have disclosed receiving their test results several days late, not at all, or receiving other customers PCR results. All of these scenarios have caused individuals to extend their quarantines and miss flights.
Consequently, several reports have been made to the crime reporting centre Action Fraud.
Health Secretary Sajid Javid has acknowledged these complaints and concerns by requesting that the CMA conduct a rapid review of “exploitative practices” among private providers of PCR fit to fly tests.
The watchdog is said to investigate whether private firms are breaching consumer law in addition to what wider structural issues exist in the market and what actions ministers will be able to take.
Despite the recognition of urgency for the issue, it was noted that the investigation will not likely be completed before the summer holidays in the UK, sparking backlash from MP’s and travel industry chiefs.
In the meantime, however, the UK government has vowed to continue to ensure testing providers are held accountable by the independent United Kingdom Accreditation Service. Companies that do not meet high standards will be removed from the list of approved suppliers.
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