Mandatory COVID-19 tests at YVR and hotel quarantine to cost travellers over $2k

YVR TAKEcare. (Vancouver International Airport)

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that mandatory COVID-19 testing would be implemented at airports, including Vancouver International Airport (YVR).

Starting in February, there will be a second mandatory COVID-19 test for arriving international passengers.

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As they await the result, they will be required to quarantine for three days at a supervised hotel. The stay will cost $2,000 per person – which includes the cost of private tests and the hotel stay.

If they receive a negative test result, they can go home to quarantine with enhanced supervision. But if the test is positive, they will be taken to a government facility.

Trudeau said these “decisions are not made lightly” and are “informed, effective decisions that take in all factors and their consequences.”

“My priority is to protect Canadians,” said the Prime Minister.

A spokesperson from the YVR Airport Authority tells Daily Hive that they’re “aware” of the new travel restrictions and requirements.

“We are committed to supporting our government partners and public health officials to do our part to prevent the spread of COVID-19,” reads an emailed statement. “We provide an essential service to our community, keeping the airport open for those who need to travel and facilitating the critical movement of cargo.”

Earlier this month, the federal government implemented stricter travel measures requiring all air travellers bound for Canada to present a pre-departure negative COVID-19 test in order to fly.

In addition, beginning next week, all international flights will only be allowed to land at four airports; Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Montreal.

As well, major Canadian airlines are cancelling their air service to sun destinations including the Caribbean and Mexico starting this Sunday until April 30.

The airlines include Air Canada, WestJet, Sunwing, and Air Transat.

Late last year, WestJet, in partnership with UBC and Providence Health Care, launched a rapid COVID-19 test pilot project at YVR’s domestic check-in area. It is not immediately clear how the new requirements could affect this pilot project intended to develop research for best practices.

With files from Clarrie Feinstein

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