WestJet and Swoop have announced a significant expansion to their COVID-19 testing program through digital health technology platform AZOVA. The new options include self-administered tests that meet Canada's pre-entry PCR test requirements.
With AZOVA's app-based program, guests have access to a large network of approved testing locations across Canada and the majority of WestJet transborder and international destinations.
AZOVA also offers rapid molecular self-administered testing options with video proctoring services that allow for testing and validation certificates. Guests can take these tests from home or in any destination to meet the Government of Canada's pre-entry PCR test requirements. The price is US$115 ($146.80) and results are available in 11-30 minutes.
While the convenience is inarguable, the price for the government-mandated testing is likely to still be seen as daunting by travel advisors and their clients.
AZOVA says its COVID-19 testing services meet entry requirements for each destination and enable travellers to take self-administered or in-person tests prior to departure.
"As many of our guests look to book holiday travel outside Canada for the first time in almost two years, it's critical that we provide our guests with the peace of mind knowing that all the COVID testing requirements they will face throughout their journey can be conveniently booked, conducted and stored in the AZOVA app," said Dr. Tammy McKnight, WestJet's Chief Medical Officer.
"We've heard from our guests that pre-departure testing, and entry requirements are confusing, complex and inconsistent. We are confident that AZOVA's easy-to-use self-testing options and network of testing locations will give guests the confidence they need to plan their next flight or vacation."
Cheryl Lee Eberting, MD, CEO and Founder of AZOVA, says the new options for WestJet and Swoop guests will remove some of the stress of travelling in these times.
"COVID testing requirements can be overwhelming and confusing with different requirements for every destination. AZOVA provides an end to end and seamless solution to enable guests to quickly identify what test is needed for any destination and to quickly purchase or schedule the tests that are needed anywhere in the world through a single application. We are thrilled to be working with WestJet and Swoop to bring this solution to guests and travellers everywhere," Eberting said.
"Once you have received your test results, enter your AZOVA Credential ID into the AZOVA WestJet and Swoop site and receive a travel clearance on the AZOVA app for your destination. You can simply show your travel clearance at the gate with no paperwork and no confusing forms required."
Guests who are travelling outside of Canada for a period of more than 72 hours after November 30th will be required to present a negative molecular test taken within 72 hours of their flight.
AZOVA offers an at-home RT-LAMP test, called the Lucira Check-It COVID-19 test kit with video proctoring which can be purchased and delivered to homes in Canada. These tests can be taken at home to meet the entrance requirements of most destinations, and can be packed and taken in destination to meet the requirements for return travel back to Canada.
In addition to availability in Canada, AZOVA also offers the Lucira Check-It COVID-19 test kit to be purchased and delivered to destinations in the United States.
Self-administered tests can be purchased here, priced at US $115.
When booking flights for travel outside Canada, guests can visit the AZOVA website and select their destination to understand what testing is required and can either book an in person test or order the self-administered testing kits.
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