Edmonton International Airport welcomes relaxed US travel rules – Edmonton

Edmonton International Airport (EIA) calls the Biden administration’s decision to end COVID-19 testing requirements for travelers “positive.”

The changes went into effect on Sunday.

“Any reduction in time-consuming processes would have a positive impact on the passenger experience and on the process for Canadians now traveling to the United States,” read a statement from Steve Maybee, vice president of communications, operations. and infrastructure at EIA.

“We fully support the US government’s decision and it further aligns with the broader international community that has removed the vaccine mandate and COVID protocols.”

An Edmonton travel consultant said it’s a big burden on travelers’ shoulders when planning their vacation.

“It’ll be better at the airport for check-in,” said Leah Holt, travel consultant at Go Travel.

“The queues were really bogged down – that’s another thing for officers to have to worry about checking for tests.”

4:00
COVID travel: Canada temporarily lifts random COVID tests

Holt noted that it already looks like a lot more people will be venturing to the United States this summer, especially for quick trips.

“Even just for Disneyland and Disney for the summer. Lots of last minute planning,” she said.

“A lot of people are also looking forward to going to New York for the weekend – even just trips to Seattle or Las Vegas – quick weekends that we can do.”

Holt still encourages people to do their own testing because they might have the virus.

She said people shouldn’t forget about cancellation insurance either.

“It’s a step closer to the pandemic, which I think we’re all looking forward to,” Holt said.

The CDC will reevaluate its decision in 90 days and will continue to evaluate it on an ongoing basis.

“The pre-departure testing requirement for international travelers arriving in the United States has been in place since January 2021.

2:12
Critics argue Ottawa should lift all airport COVID-19 measures