IATA urges CMA investigation of Covid test prices
Aviation trade body the International Air Transport Association wants an investigation into the costs of Covid tests in the UK for possible price fixing.
IATA wants the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to look into the matter urgently.
There is a growing backlash against the high costs of mandatory PCR tests from both travellers and tour operators and airlines.
The framework announced outlining the potential restart of overseas leisure travel requires all inbound travellers take a post-arrival PCR test, as well as a pre-departure test.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has acknowledged PCR test ‘costs are definitely a concern.’
"Engage the UK Competition and Markets Authority to act in the interests of consumers and launch an immediate investigation into coronavirus testing charges," IATA said.
"The biggest concern is the sole reliance on PCR testing. This is far from the ‘affordable and accessible’ promise that the government has made. PCR testing is expensive, inconvenient and, in short supply in some destinations."
Travel suppliers have asked that holidaymakers returning from low-risk countries are allowed to take a lateral flow test which is cheaper and quicker.
"Travellers face eye-watering costs for Covid tests which will price many people out of seeing loved ones or taking a holiday when international travel resumes, so it’s important the government quickly considers steps it can take to reduce costs while ensuring safety," said Rory Boland, Editor of Which? Travel
"Which? has submitted evidence to the Global Travel Taskforce on the high cost of tests in the UK, and what solutions other countries have used to make testing more affordable.
TravelMole Editorial Team
Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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