PITTSBURGH, Dec. 15, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) – As part of improving health, safety and security for travelers, Pittsburgh International Airport, along with several airports around the world, is offering optional arrival and departure COVID-19 testing Passengers from next week.
In cooperation with TACKL Health, the test program is to start on Monday, December 21, in Concourse A in the PIT’s Airside Terminal. The center, which is behind the security checkpoint, will be a secure space with socially detached seating, privacy curtains, and directional floor decals. The location is central near the Center Core across from Gate A2.
The test option in the terminal is an extension of the PIT Safe Travels program, which includes a range of health and safety measures implemented this year in response to the pandemic.
“Whether people are traveling now or planning a trip into the future, when they are more comfortable, we want travelers to know that public health, safety and security are always our top priority,” said April Gasparri, senior vice president for public safety, operation and maintenance. “This service shows this commitment and helps to increase the safety of travelers.”
For travelers who choose to have a test, TACKL Health, based in Savannah, Georgia, offers both polymerase chain reactions (PCR) and rapid antigen tests, which are performed by trained and licensed healthcare professionals in accordance with the requirements of the US HIPAA (Health Information Portability and Accountability Act). Rapid antigen test results will be available within 15 minutes, with individuals receiving an average of 24 to 48 hours of PCR results.
The tests take place daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Passengers can make an appointment in advance and walk-in visitors are accepted.
The tests cost $ 95 for the fast antigen, $ 125 for the PCR, or $ 175 for both, and can be paid for by cash or credit card. No bank transfer is required and health insurance is not accepted.
“During the pandemic, we worked to help organizations address the challenges posed by COVID-19,” said Lauren Hetzel, vice president of business development at TACKL Health. “We are excited to have the opportunity to work with Pittsburgh International Airport to provide a safe and convenient option for travelers.”
Officials expect the airport test site can run up to 500 tests a day. Currently, under government regulation, passengers are not required to present test results when entering the airport, checking in for a flight, or before boarding an aircraft, nor is the airport responsible for enforcement.
Passengers should not come to the airport if they are sick or have COVID-like symptoms. Visit www.flypittsburgh.com/PITcovidtest for more information.
About the Allegheny County Airport Authority:
The Allegheny County Airport Authority, which operates Pittsburgh International Airport and Allegheny County Airport, is committed to transforming Pittsburgh airports to reflect and serve the community, inspire the industry, and the region’s role as a Strengthen world market leaders. The airport was named one of the world’s most innovative companies by Fast Company magazine and a finalist in the World Changing Ideas Awards in 2020.
The agency’s Safe Travels initiative is committed to the highest standards of public health and safety in the airport industry – now and in the future. The initiative describes best practices for reducing the spread of germs and maintaining the health of travelers in accordance with the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. More information is available at www.flypittsburgh.com.
Bob Kerlik Allegheny County Airport Authority 412-472-3840 bkerlik@flypittsburgh.com
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