The COVID-19 pandemic made it difficult for many people to fulfill their dreams of traveling abroad. As a result, countries took the initiative and closed their borders while others allowed travel so long as they underwent testing requirements in order not discourage visitors.
The United States is one of several countries that have implemented a strict round of testing requirements for inbound flights that later tightened under Biden’s administration.
The airline industry has been requiring travelers from abroad to present a negative COVID test. Land travelers going through border crossings were exempted.
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The Biden administration recently lifted the requirement on Sunday that had been in place since 2021, ending one of longest travel restrictions during this pandemic period.
The administration was requested by airlines, travel agencies and even some parts of the government to abandon this requirement. It’s been argued that airlines have experienced decreased demand as a result because it makes people less likely to want to go on international trips.
The CEO of American Airlines, Robert Isom, expressed his frustration after meeting with politicians in Washington, D.C., calling the rule “nonsensical.”
The administration’s decision to drop the requirement earned praise from several figures in the industry.
“The Biden administration is to be commended for this action, which will welcome back visitors from around the world and accelerate the recovery of the U.S. travel industry,” said Roger Dow, president of the U.S. Travel Association. “International inbound travel is vitally important to businesses and workers across the country who have struggled to regain losses from this valuable sector.”
The Travel Technology Association has pointed out that travel and tourism are crucial in recovering from the pandemic
The CEO of Airlines for America, Nick Calio announced his enthusiasm regarding the recent decision by Biden’s administration to continue working with airlines and prioritize safety on air travel policies.
Vice President Joe Biden’s administration has decided to reassess the decision on whether or not they should discontinue the test requirement after 90 days.
“If there is a need to reinstate a pre-departure testing requirement – including due to a new, concerning variant – CDC will not hesitate to act,” said the official.
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Reference:
The U.S. Lifts COVID-19 Testing Requirement for Inbound International Air Travelers
