American Airlines Adopts Self-Testing Technology

American Airlines is making it easier for travelers to fly internationally through a self-test option.  In expanding its pre-flight coronavirus (COVID-19) testing program with new self-administered and more in-person testing options it follows moves by other domestic airlines, such as United, to give passengers more control over their tests and their time.

Customers can now order an Abbott BinaxNOW Home Test through telehealth provider eMed. The 15-minute, self-swab COVID checks can be supervised virtually by an eMed-Certified Guide. They are managed 72 hours before a return flight to the U.S. The CDC-approved rapid antigen tests that can be taken abroad as passengers receive electronic documentation for reentry to the U.S., assuming a negative test result.

Self-administered and packable Abbott BinaxNOW Home Test are ordered through eMed. Should passengers prefer an in-person experience, the nationwide expansion of CareNow, which has a partnership with American Airlines, creates more in-person testing options. CareNow offers nearly 160 locations. Meanwhile, customers using VeriFLY can now check-in for their flights online at aa.com or use the American Airlines mobile app, without having to see an agent at the airport. The free VeriFLY app simplifies travel by allowing customers to enter their origin and destination and guiding them through the necessary travel requirements. Customers can upload documentation of their completed requirements directly to the app, which then validates that the documents match a country’s requirements and displays a simple pass or fail message.

VeriFLY is, so far, a widely adopted mobile health passport, helping customers flying on American and its partners — Aer Lingus, Alaska Airlines, British Airways, Iberia, Japan Air Lines and Qantas.

“We want customers to focus on planning their trip to reconnect with family or unwind after more than a year at home, without the added stress of figuring out where and how they will get the right test,” said Julie Rath, Vice President of Customer Experience at American. “Our partnerships allow them to choose the testing option that works best and is the most convenient for them when they book their flight.”

Customers can order a set of six tests for $150 directly from eMed at American.eMed.comor pick up individual “Home Tests” at select pharmacies. The cost includes the supervision of an eMed Certified Guide who will join the individual during a telehealth visit to lead them through the testing process. The test result is available in around 15 minutes and is documented in Abbott’s complementary NAVICATM app available on smart devices. Additional shipping costs for the tests may apply.

All of American’s COVID testing options can be found at aa.com/covid19testing.