COVID tests available for international travellers flying from Kelowna airport

Those who need a negative COVID-19 test before hopping on an international flight can now get that done at Kelowna International Airport, for a fee.

Rapid antigen tests cost $120 and results are available within half an hour. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test costs $240 with results taking 24 to 48 hours to arrive.

“We have seen a tremendous commitment from airlines to return air service to our region,” Kelowna airport director Sam Samaddar said in a news release. “Ensuring we can keep those who are traveling for essential reasons safe by offering COVID-19 testing is an important step in the safe return to air travel and in our regional economic recovery.”

The testing site was set up in March, at the south end of the airport terminal next to the valet parking booth, to offer tests to workers flying to Terrace to work on the LNG Canada project.

It’s now being made available to the general public by Whitecap RSC.

Travellers will still have to answer health screening questions and have a temperature check at the airport’s security screening area before boarding flights.

Appointments can be booked online at whitecapcovidtesting.com or by calling 604-966-3777. The testing is available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.

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