Passengers arriving into Canada by air will be required to show proof of a negative coronavirus test before arriving in the nation. The federal government announced this move today as part of its measures to deal with the pandemic.
Additional steps
CBC reports that passengers must undergo a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test within a 72-hour period before boarding their flight. Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc said this policy will be in place shortly. However, he did not specify exactly when this measure will start.
During a public health briefing, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair shared that this policy does not take over from the federal government’s mandatory 14-day quarantine requirement. Moreover, the Canada Border Services Agency will also be ramping up its presence at Canadian airports.
Blair said the following, as reported by CBC:
“This is not an alternative to quarantine. It’s an additional layer. Additional border officers will be present at various positions to reinforce compliance messaging.”
Blair added that teams have already been sent to customs areas and inspection lines to speak to passengers about their obligations. Travelers will also be reminded of the implications of failing to follow the rules.
A firm stance
In total, approximately 2% of all cases of the virus in the nation were brought in from overseas. Altogether, the federal government has advised against non-essential travel outside Canada since the beginning of the global health crisis.
Blair concluded with the following, as shared by Global News:
“We strongly advise against travel unless absolutely necessary. If you must travel, understand that upon your return, you must follow guidelines and quarantine for 14 days. It’s not just the right thing to do — it’s the law. And if you don’t, it can result in serious consequences.”
The challenges continue
As of today, Canada has reported 565,506 cases of the virus. The nation has also reported 6,442 new cases as concerns spread across Quebec, Ontario, and western Canada.
Canada has implemented strict policies when it comes to aviation amid the climate. There have been several restrictions in place since March. Moreover, it recently suspended all inbound commercial and private passenger flights from the United Kingdom until January 6th.
Carriers have had their operations massively impacted as a result. However, they have been trying their best to support in the dire situation. Perhaps, with consistent testing and quarantine measures in place together, outright flight bans may no longer be needed in 2021.
Simple Flying reached out to various Canadian carriers about these requirements. We will update the article with any announcements from the airlines.
What are your thoughts about Canada’s testing requirements for those entering the country? How do you feel airlines will be impacted by these measures? Let us know what you think of the situation in the comment section.