Published on Friday, January 29, 2021

BA trials digital 'passport' on routes to US

British Airways will become the first UK airline to trial a mobile travel health 'passport' that will enable passengers to check they meet entry requirements for the US.


The app, called VeriFLY, will be available from 4 February on BA's transatlantic routes for the few passengers who are still able to travel.


The platform enables users to upload flight information, personal details, the results of a negative Covid test and other essential information.


The software then checks the information against the destination's entry requirements and returns a 'fail' or 'pass' message.


BA Chief Executive Sean Doyle said: "Although flying is currently restricted, it is essential we do as much as we can now to help those who are eligible to fly and prepare to help our customers navigate the complexities around changing global entry requirements when the world re-opens.


"We remain focused and committed to finding user-friendly, evidence-based solutions to make journeys as seamless they can be.


"Through these trials, we hope to provide travellers and governments on both sides of the Atlantic with the tools and the reassurance they need to make safe travel possible." 


BA stressed that use of the app is not mandatory. 


VeriFLY, which has been developed by US tech firm Daon, is already being trailed by BA's fellow Oneworld carrier, American Airlines.


A second phase of the trial will see passengers travelling to the UK from the US  able to use the technology on both BA and AA.


BA said they wlll be first transatlantic partners to offer a digital solution for passengers flying to the UK.  


Despite the near-total paralysis of travel, BA is still operating flights to New York JFK, LA, San Francisco, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Miami, Washington, Houston and Seattle.

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