Calgary International Airport (YYC)-based WestJet announced on Thursday that it is collaborating with Hawaii to offer passengers a pre-flightCOVID-19test. A negative test result from WestJet laboratory partner DynaLIFE is required within 72-hours of departure and will exempt the guest from the state's required 14-day quarantine upon arrival.
"Safety remains our number one priority, and we thank Governor Ige and the State of Hawaii for providing this opportunity for Canadians to enjoy all that the islands have to offer while safely supporting the tourism industry," said Arved von zur Muehlen, WestJet Chief Commercial Officer in a press release.
"WestJet's teams are working hard to rebuild confidence in air travel through important partnerships like this one with Hawaii's Trusted Travel Partner program and DynaLIFE. With pre-departure and arrivals testing now available through the collaborative efforts of the Governments of Canada, the Government of Alberta, and the YYC Calgary International Airport, our guests have a wonderful opportunity to enjoy safe and enjoyable travel without the rigorous quarantine requirements."
Westjet is working with DynaLIFE
WestJet will begin the testing program with its laboratory partner DynaLIFE in the province of Alberta for all Hawaii bound Westjet passengers 72-hours before departure. All information regarding the testing program and what you need to do can be found by clicking on the linkwestjet.com/covidtesting.
WestJet passengers are responsible for covering the cost of the COVID-19 test, which is C$150 ($114). Currently, the test is only available in Alberta but is open to all Canadian residents who wish to travel to Hawaii. Before boarding the aircraft, a check will be done to ensure that all passengers have proof of a negative COVID-19 result. Any passenger that does not will be required by Hawaii state law to quarantine for 14-days.
People traveling to Hawaii must register
Any person wanting to travel to Hawaii must register with the state COVID-19 website, which can be done by clicking on the linkhttps://hawaiicovid19.com/travel/.
Earlier in the week, WestJet announced that it would be operating a twice-weekly non-stop service between Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in Honolulu.WestJetwill also fly non-stop twice a week from Calgary to Kahului Airport (OGG) on Maui. All flights to Hawaii will be aboard WestJet Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.
Air Canada also flies to Hawaii from Calgary
Canada's largest airlineAir Canadaalso announced the COVID-19 tests last week when it released its winter schedule of flights to Hawaii from Calgary and Vancouver. All Canadians wishing to travel to Hawaii are advised to visitCanada's Government websitefor all the latest COVID-19 advice.
What do you think about having to pay so much for a COVID-19 test? If you show symptoms or think you may have been in contact with someone who has the virus testing if free. If you want to go on vacation or to visit family or friends you have to pay. Airlines, laboratories, and governments should work together to make pre-flight testing less expensive.
Please tell us your thoughts about having to pay for a COVID-19 test in the comments.