Travelling during a pandemic: how to obtain a fit to fly certificate

Don't get caught out!
Travelling, in general, can be quite stressful, without the added stress of a pandemic. We know how confusing it can all be so we hope that this blog post will help answer some of your concerns.

If you have flights booked or are thinking of upcoming travel, you may need a negative COVID-19 PCR test and a fit to fly certificate. This is required by multiple destinations and airlines to help keep everyone safe and reduce the spread of coronavirus.

Travelling during the pandemic can be stressful, so please make sure to check with your airline if a fit to travel certificate or COVID-19 test is needed to allow you to travel, as the list of requirements and destinations is constantly changing.

What test should I have & what is a fit to fly certificate?

You will need the RT-PCR Swab Test for COVID-19. This test is conducted using a swab and is taken from your throat and nostrils.

That sounds painful!

It isn’t! The swab is taken of your throat and both nostrils and although a little uncomfortable and can trigger your gag reflex briefly, is not painful for the vast majority of people. It’s itchier than anything else!

What is a fit to fly certificate?

Essentially, the fit to fly certificate is a medical report that must be signed by a doctor registered with the General Medical Council within an accredited clinic. The certificate states that you have had a negative RT-PCR test, have no symptoms of COVID-19 and are fit to travel. Our certificate is signed and stamped with our clinic seal.

When should I have my PCR test?

Please make sure you check with your airline and the destination that you are travelling to, as some may require the test be taken no earlier than 96 hours or 72 hours prior to travel and some are happy for your test to be within 7 days. As requirements keep changing, you are best advised to speak to your airline or travel agent before booking your appointment.

Costs & results turnaround

  • Your result will be ready the next day before 6 pm or before 8 am with our premium service
  • The cost for a next-day result is £175, and you do not have to pay extra for the certificate. Our premium service costs £245.
  • You do not have to pay in advance, and we have a simple cancellation button in place should you need to cancel or reschedule due to your plans change.

Why choose us?

  • We have helped many people travel safely and with peace of mind over the last few months by providing a quick and easy way to get you one step closer to your destination.
  • Our service is available 5 days a week, with results processed 7 days a week.
  • We guarantee our next day turnaround time.
  • Our clinic has been operating safely throughout this pandemic, so you can be assured that we have an extensive cleaning system in place that includes sanitised rooms and common areas.
  • Our team is regularly tested for COVID-19.

Leave a Comment

  • Joe Hanover says:

    Came across this page after looking for a fit to fly certificate and this provided all the information I was looking for! Really helpful blog post.

    • Alya Marquardt says:

      Thanks, Joe! We’re regularly updating the information on the website as things develop so please do check in if you need up to date information.

  • Sylvia says:

    Last month had to travel to Thailand for work & had to have a certificate. Indeed, the test is not painful at all & its fast and simple.

  • Johnathon Davies says:

    Last month I had to go to a different country for a business proposition and needed a certificate to fly. This test is fast and effective