Lufthansa becomes first globally leading airline with a solution for safe and convenient international air travel during this pandemic. Landmark exclusive cooperation offers testing for passengers departing from or arriving at Frankfurt airport starting immediately. Innovative concept supports a safe reopening of air travel and further steps towards a new normal for our societies and economies.
Serving as a blueprint to opening international borders, this first walk-in testing solution in Germany will aid with regulations when entering countries. In many countries (e.g., China), passengers will not be allowed to enter without prior COVID-19 testing. The exclusive partnership for Frankfurt Airport with Lufthansa and Fraport starts immediately and is expected to run until July 31, 2021.
Passengers flying to or from Frankfurt Airport with Lufthansa will be able to perform the test at a sampling center conveniently located near the main terminal. This can either be completed the day before traveling or with a fast track solution the same day before departure. All results are delivered to the passenger via a secure digital platform and connected to their ticket – providing secured clearance for passengers flying to countries with entrance restrictions. Additionally, passengers can opt into an ID confirmation service, assuring authorities that the passengers’ identities correspond with the test results.
Dr. Volkmar Weckesser, CENTOGENE Chief Information Officer, stated, “Over the past months, global air travel has been critically affected by the COVID-19 pandemic – preventing individuals from traveling home, attending business meetings, and going on trips that were planned months in advance. Through our partnership with Lufthansa and our medical partner Dr. Bauer Laboratoriums GmbH, we can ensure a quick, accurate, and secure end-to-end solution that safely reopens air travel and further supports a return to a new normal for our societies and economies.”
“By opening the test center, we are offering our guests a comfortable opportunity to test themselves for flights abroad or a stay in Germany to avoid quarantine,” said Dr. Björn Becker, Senior Director Product Management Ground & Digital Services at Lufthansa Group. “Even in these challenging times, we are using our innovative strength and strong partnerships with CENTOGENE and Frankfurt Airport to ensure that our customers have a safe and relaxing travel experience.”
Daniela Weiss, Fraport Vice President Duty Management Terminals, said: “We are happy to offer passengers this new service at Frankfurt Airport. This is another example of how Frankfurt Airport, together with its partners, is pioneering the development of innovative passenger services. This service ensures a safe and relaxed travel experience at Germany’s global gateway, even during these times.”
Photo (c) Fraport AG, Release: Centogene AG