MONTREAL — Following the Biden administration’s announcement last week that all travellers must test negative for COVID-19 no later than a day before departure to the U.S., Air Canada is assuring Canadians that it has an ample supply of antigen test kits available for purchase.

Launched earlier in October in partnership with Switch Health, the self-administered antigen test will allow customers to easily meet the United States’ new entry requirements, which come into effect this week. The new update brings down the testing window from three days to just one prior to departure.

The test can be taken from the comfort of one’s home or accommodation within one day prior to their departure to the United States, with results taking approximately 15 minutes to complete. It is conducted under the remote supervision of a telehealth professional from Switch Health and includes an electronic report suitable for travel.

Customers can order the Switch Health Rapid Antigen Test Kit, which includes two tests, at switchhealth.ca/aeroplan or redeem at aircanada.com/estore.

“With government restrictions evolving around the world, we want to simplify the experience and provide customers with easy and effective testing solutions,” said Mark Nasr, Senior Vice President, Products Marketing & eCommerce at Air Canada. “We’re also sending new, customized e-mails within five days of departure, detailing the travel, entry and testing requirements specific to any itinerary, for travel everywhere throughout the globe.”

Air Canada has updated the Air Canada app and aircanada.com to recognize the Switch Health QR code and proof of vaccination status, enabling customers to securely submit their test results and proof of vaccination in advance of travel. This meets the Government of Canada requirement that all air travellers be fully vaccinated.