If you have booked a ticket or considered travelling in 2022, you might have noticed that many countries now require travellers to present a “Fit to Fly” certificate at the airport before their flight. But what does this certificate need to include?  

Essentially, it is an official document stating that you are COVID-19-free and safe to travel abroad. You can get the Fit to fly certificate in Epsom and many of our other Miles Pharmacy Travel Clinics throughout London.  

We hope this blog post helps you understand this new requirement and how to jump through all of the bureaucratic hoops to get to your destination. 

 What is a Fit to Fly Certificate? 

A Fit-to-Fly Certificate is a signed and stamped letter from an accredited clinic (with the Care Quality Commission), signed by a doctor registered with the General Medical Council that confirms that you do not have any symptoms of COVID-19, have had a negative Fit-to Fly Covid PCR Swab Test and are fit to fly. 

 How Does Fit to Fly Work? 

You need to check with your airline as some destinations require the sample to be taken 96 hours before departure, others 72 hours before, and others 48 hours before arrival. It can get confusing, so it is absolutely necessary to check with your airline before booking your test. Also confirm how long it will take to get your results back, to ensure you get them prior to departure.   

 Is the PCR swab test painful? 

The majority of patients report the swab being a little uncomfortable (as it can make you gag a bit and is irritating inside the nose) but do not report any pain. The swab takes 10 – 15 seconds and although not something you would do for fun; it isn’t a terrible experience! 

  What destination require a negative PCR swab test? 

The list of destinations changes every day so you should check with your airline. The most common destinations so far have been Cyprus, Hungary, Austria, Dubai, India, Ethiopia, Morocco, Egypt, Bermuda, Barbados, St Lucia, Martinique, Iraq, Iran, Qatar, and many others.  

 For your convenience, Miles Pharmacy Travel Clinics have made it easy for you got get a Covid Fit to Fly Certificate from our Epsom branch. Visit our website today to schedule an appointment for your Fit-to-Fly test and any travel vaccination or travel advice you may need before travelling abroad.