If you require a fit to fly certificate for international business travel, we can provide one with our same or next day result COVID-19 PCR test.
Provision of a fit to fly certificate is conditional on you receiving a negative PCR test result and your answers to a series of COVID-19 specific health related questions.
How does the COVID-19 fit to fly test work?
- Receive results by email
- Fit to fly certificate included
- Same day results available for extra fee
- PCR nasopharyngeal and throat swab sample required
- NHS-standard laboratory test
IMPORTANT: Different countries have different requirements regarding entry, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. You are responsible for understanding the requirements of the country you are traveling to and for ensuring our fit to fly certificate and PCR testing service is sufficient for your travel needs. We cannot be held responsible in the event of any country refusing you entry on any grounds.
Due to the short time period between undertaking your sample collection and provision of your results and certificate, ahead of your departure/ arrival time (usually a total of 72 hours before flying). We recommend our same day or guaranteed next day service
FAQ
How is the coronavirus PCR test conducted ?
Nasal/throat swab sample to perform the COVID-19 test, you may experience some discomfort when rubbing the swab.
What is the rt PCR test and how is it different to other forms of COVID-19 testing?
The rt PCR test looks for evidence that the COVID-19 virus is present, by detecting the presence of its RNA in a swab sample from your nose/throat. The rt PCR test detects the genetic material contained within the virus called RNA. When the sample reaches our laboratory, a process called real time polymerase chain reaction (rt PCR) is commenced. If there is viral RNA present, this process starts a ‘chain reaction’ and creates billions of copies of the genetic material contained within the virus so that there is a sufficient quantity of genetic material to be detected and analysed by scientists to enable a positive result to be obtained. In the event of no COVID-19 RNA being detected, we will report the sample as being negative.
An antibody test looks for evidence in a blood sample that your immune system may have responded to the COVID-19 virus already, through the presence of COVID-19 specific antibodies.
How accurate is the testing process and the test results?
An rt PCR test detects the presence of COVID-19-specific RNA within the nose or throat sample. The scientific analysis is 100% accurate and will confirm if the person being tested has an active COVID-19 infection irrespective of if they are displaying symptoms or not (asymptomatic).
Depending on the outcome of the analysis, the report will state if the virus is ‘detected’ or ‘not detected’.
What should I do if my COVID-19 PCR test result is positive?
If you receive a positive result, you and your household must self-isolate and follow the latest Government guidance on self-isolation, which can be found here: www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/self-isolation-and-treatment/when-to-self-isolate-and-what-to-do/
What should I do if my COVID-19 result is negative and I start to feel unwell?
If you develop the symptoms of a COVID-19 infection, you should follow Government guidance: www.111.nhs.uk/service/COVID-19/
What if I’ve already had Coronavirus Disease?
If you have already contracted coronavirus, the rt PCR analysis may not return a positive result as we would be reporting if the COVID-19 virus is currently active and present. To establish a previous infection, you might consider undertaking an antibody test.
For more information about Coronavirus, visit the NHS website at: www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/