CAA takes notice of overpriced rapid PCR test for UAE travelers

Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has taken notice of reports concerning unnecessary amounts being charged from passengers traveling to UAE by airlines for leading a rapid PCR test.

The aviation authority had received complaints regarding excessive charges from UAE travelers by airlines at various airports of the country.

No airline could charge a sum beyond Rs5000 from a passenger for a rapid PCR test and said that directives have been issued to airport managers for strict implementation in this regard, stated DG CAA.

“If the airlines refuse to accept the fee fixed for rapid PCR test then it should be linked with its regulatory conditions,” the CAA official said.

Whereas, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has permitted all visa holders from Pakistan to visit the Kingdom from August 30.

On the contrary, the travelers would undertake rapid PCR tests onward of the flight to Dubai while making airlines accountable for the negative test of the travelers.

In case of a passenger testing positive for COVID-19 upon their arrival in the kingdom, the concerned airline would be accountable for it.

Furthermore, the passengers had to endure a PCR test 72 hours preceding traveling to the Kingdom.