News

Zurich airport opens testing facility

6 Jan 2021 by Hannah Brandler
Testing Zurich Airport

Zurich airport is working with Swissport subsidiary Checkport Schweiz AG to operate a PCR testing facility from January 7.

The pre-departure testing facility is different from those at other airports. The facility uses Enders Diagnostics’ PCR tests which are carried out by saliva sample rather than nasal swab. This allows for a speedier return of results, with the passenger informed within five hours rather than the usual 24-48 hour timeframe with previous PCR tests.

The tests are administered by passengers themselves in dedicated test boxes (see picture below), with no assistance required by medical personnel. The airport states that travellers will then clean the boxes after using them.

Zurich Airport testing

The self-test kits cost SFr195 (approximately €180) and are sold on site, with no prior appointment necessary.

The samples are then transported to the Swiss Analysis AG laboratory four times a day by courier service.

The facility is located on the first floor of Zurich airport’s check-in 2, and is open daily from 0600-2000. Note that test samples delivered after 1700 are processed the following morning.

Commenting on the launch of the testing facility, David Steffen, Managing Director of Checkport Schweiz AG, said:

“We are pleased to partner with Ender Diagnostics for the Covid-19 rapid testing center at Zurich Airport. Passengers traveling to countries that require proof of a negative Covid-19 test prior to departure now enjoy a simpler pre-departure procedure. Our new service brings great relief to air travel. We are convinced it will help motivate people to return to flying.”

Swissport also operates a pre-departure testing facility at Heathrow airport.

To find out about which other airports are offering Covid-19 tests, see our feature:

Which airports are offering Covid-19 tests?

flughafen-zuerich.ch

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