Japan Airlines to Offer Discounted PCR Tests for Domestic Passengers

In an effort to reassure passengers who are refraining from booking flights due to fears over the spread of COVID-19, Japan Airlines has announced on March 1 that it will extend its existing Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing scheme, which is currently aimed at group tours, to its frequent flyer program members.

The tests will be offered to mileage club members at the heavily discounted price of 2,000 Japanese Yen for all domestic flights. The scheme is currently expected to run until June 30, 2021.

Passengers will be required to request the test at least one week prior to their date of departure, and will have the PCR kit sent to their home. They will then be asked to submit a sample of saliva and will be notified of the result via email.

Other airlines are providing similar services to reassure passengers. All Nippon Airways is offering a PCR test to passengers travelling via Tokyo’s Haneda or Narita airports who have purchased a package including a hotel stay.

Low-cost carrier Peach Aviation continues to offer free PCR testing until the end of March to passengers travelling from or to Osaka Kansai or Tokyo Narita airports.