A transatlantic COVID-19 testing program is being organised by Delta Air Lines, the Aeroporti di Roma and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. This new scheme is projected to enable quarantine-free entry into Italy, in accordance with a decree expected to be issued soon by the government.
Delta is taking expert advice from Mayo Clinic
Delta has involved expert advisors from Mayo Clinic to review and assess customer-testing protocols needed to execute a COVID-tested flight program. Mayo Clinic is a global leader in healthcare. “Based on the modelling we have conducted, when testing protocols are combined with multiple layers of protection, including mask requirements, proper social distancing and environmental cleaning, we can predict that the risk of Covid-19 infection – on a flight that is 60 per cent full – should be nearly one in a million,” said Henry Ting, chief value officer at the Mayo Clinic.
“Carefully designed Covid-19 testing protocols are the best path for resuming international travel safely and without quarantine until vaccinations are widely in place. Safety is our core promise – it’s at the centre of this pioneering testing effort and it’s the foundation of our standards for cleanliness and hygiene to help customers feel confident when they fly Delta,” said Steve Sear, Delta president.
On December 19th, a dedicated trial will begin testing customers and crew on newly relaunched flights from Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport to Rome-Fiumicino International Airport. Citizens from the United States that are permitted to fly to Italy for essential reasons will be exempt from quarantine after the tests. This will also apply to citizens from the European Union and Italian citizens.
