British Airways allows travellers to upload Covid documents online
British Airways customers eligible to travel to India are now able to upload their negative Covid-19 test results and other travel declaration forms directly into their booking on the airline’s website ba.com, in advance of travel
The new initiative is being trialled as part of the airline’s efforts to simplify the departure process as it prepares for the return of international travel. The trial, which is running on all flights from London to India, will certify that customers have the correct documentation needed for their flight before they arrive at the airport, allowing them to check-in online and avoid queuing in the terminal.
British Airways aims to roll this trial out to more destinations over the coming weeks and is also working to add this functionality for those destinations to its British Airways app. This will enable customers to securely upload the documentation for their booking directly from their mobile device, which could include negative Covid test results and/or proof of a vaccination if it is required by the government of the destination.
Preparing for a meaningful return to travel
Sean Doyle, British Airways’ Chief Executive Officer, said: “At British Airways we are preparing for the meaningful return to international travel in the coming months. This means doing everything we can to simplify the journey for our customers, allowing them to travel with confidence and create the best possible seamless, frictionless experience in a new Covid era.
“We know that innovation and technology hold the key to unlocking international travel. We are already offering access to travel app VeriFLY on selected routes and IAG has been helping develop Travel Pass with IATA. Now it’s also time to look at what we can offer through our own website. The key benefit of customers being able to upload the correct travel documentation into their booking is that it enables them to check-in online, speeding up the airport process. We are continually exploring the best possible options to help our customers return to the skies, safely.”
Discounted antigen tests for passengers
Additionally, to give ultimate peace of mind when planning future travel, British Airways is offering discounted global antigen tests from government-approved Covid-19 testing provider Qured, at an exclusive price of £33. The rapid test kits can be ordered to any UK address. Designed to be portable, customers can take the kits with them abroad, in preparation for their return journey to the UK.
Doyle, commented: “As we look forward and prepare for a safe return to travel, we remain focused on finding and offering the most convenient and affordable testing options for our customers. Our teams were pleased to discover Qured, a unique new option which removes uncertainty and unnecessary expense for customers who may be concerned about sourcing a pre-departure test while away from home.”