United Airlines Says It Will Offer Travelers Coronavirus Tests At The Airport

United Airlines baggage tags are displayed on a table at San Francisco International Airport. The carrier says it’s starting a pilot program next month that will offer rapid coronavirus testing at the airport or via a self-collected, mail-in test ahead of their flight.

Justin Sullivan / Getty Images

In another effort aimed at getting travelers back on planes, United Airlines will begin offering on-the-spot coronavirus testing to some passengers at the airport before they board their flight.

The tests will be offered to United customers going to Hawaii from San Francisco International Airport in a pilot program beginning Oct. 15. The rapid tests, developed by Abbott Laboratories, can provide results in 15 minutes. United customers also will have the option of a self-administered, mail-in test that they would need to submit within 72 hours before their flight.

The airline says it worked alongside the Hawaiian government to ensure the test meets state requirements — so travelers who test negative for the coronavirus within 72 hours of their arrival will not be subject to Hawaii’s mandatory 14-day quarantine for those coming to the state.