The COVID 19 pandemic required passengers to take a PCR test and show proof at the time of booking on Qatar Airways. According to WHO protocol this was done to protect international travellers and stop the virus spread. Thus only those with negative PCR tests may board the aeroplane.
Today such restrictions do not exist. Qatar Airways flights can take you anywhere without a PCR test. No airline worldwide practices this policy.
Qatar Airways preferred PCR Polymerase Chain Reaction tests over Rapid Antigen Tests because they were more reliable and widely accepted. Thus the airline only accepted PCR test results from booking passengers.
PCR test
Qatar Airways requested passengers to present a COVID 19 PCR test result to govern global health and safety during the epidemic. PCR detects the virus genetic material in a nose or throat swab.
If the test was negative they could board the plane. A passenger with a positive Covid-19 PCR test was denied boarding.
Qatar Airways chose this testing method because it is one of the most accurate and reliable techniques to detect COVID 19.
Timing of the Test
Qatar Airways requires a PCR test within a certain duration before boarding. The test should be taken 48 72 hours before flight departure depending on your route and destination. A prior test was rejected by the airline.
Official Documentation
The traveller needed a medical certificate or record to prove a negative PCR test. The medical record should state
- Test time.
- Test date.
- Testing facility.
- Passenger information.
- Test result validity.
- Test type and other pertinent details.
This document could be printed or stored on phones tablets.
Testing Facility Accreditation
Qatar Airways listed reliable testing institutes for travel PCR tests to regulate testing standards for all passengers. Thus the airline did not accept DIY or self-administered examinations for travel.
Verification at Check In
The airline closely monitored travellers test results throughout check-in and boarding. Airline staff were trained to check paperwork first to ensure compliance.
PCR tests are no longer required for booking flights or changing ticket details on Qatar Airways manage booking platform.
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