Two digital health pass platforms are getting new trials
this week, as JetBlue has begun using the CommonPass platform on flights to
Aruba and Singapore Airlines kicks off a trial program with Travel Pass.
As a part of JetBlue's program, the carrier has partnered
with two Covid-19 testing suppliers: Vault, which provides supervised at-home
testing, and XpresCheck, which provides in-person, at-airport testing. JetBlue
travelers from Boston to Aruba can get tested, download the
CommonPass app and upload their results into the app, which gives them
access to expedited immigration lanes upon arrival in Aruba.
Aruba currently requires all arriving travelers to test
negative for Covid-19 either within 72 hours of arrival or upon arrival.
JetBlue began using CommonPass for its flights from Boston
to Aruba on Tuesday. It will be available on flights from other cities to Aruba
in "the coming weeks," according to the carrier. JetBlue's at-airport
XpresCheck partner currently operates at Los Angeles International Airport, Orlando
and all three New York City area airports in addition to Boston Logan.
The International Air Transport Association, meanwhile,
reported a "successful implementation" following the
first full deployment of its Travel Pass platform with Singapore Airlines.
The carrier has completed its first flight to London with travelers using the
platform, in which travelers can verify requirements, book testing and receive
results.
"Airlines understand that their ground operations will
grind to a halt if they have to manage Covid-19 travel requirements—test
results or vaccine certifications—with paper documentation," IATA SVP of
airport, passenger and security Nick Careen said in a statement. "This
real-life proof of concept should give all governments confidence that industry
has a workable digital solution that will ease the pressure of incorporating
health certificate checks into the travel process, including at borders."