JFK and LGA to COVID test arrivals

New York has announced upcoming changes impacting passengers arriving at both LaGuardia Airport and John F. Kennedy International. Travelers landing in these airports will be tested for the COVID-19 virus.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey—the government agency that runs the airports—will set up the COVID-19 test sites in partnership with NYC Health and Hospitals. Officials have yet to announce when the new testing will start. It’s also not clear what the price of the tests might be for travelers, or how quickly results will be available.

The testing sites join a list of New York regulations, including the state implemented 14-day quarantine for anyone arriving from a state with a high infection rate. Travelers who quarantine must also fill out a traveler health form at the airport, providing information to authorities such as where they will be staying while in New York, where they’ve been prior, and whether they’re experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms. The punishment for eschewing the form is a fine of up to $2,000.

AAA members are invited to learn more about airport testing and other safety measures in place by participating in an upcoming SmartDepart broadcast. AAA Travel will be joined by various partnering airlines and authorities as we look into the safety and wellness protocols implemented to keep travelers healthy as they take the sky. Learn what you can expect at the airport and on board your flight, and the steps you can take to prepare for a healthy journey.

Members can register for the session on our SmartDepart: Airline Safety and Wellness webinar page.