Turkey extends COVID test requirements for air passengers

Turkey has extended the mandatory coronavirus testing requirement for passengers flying into the country until May 26, 2021, Report informs with reference to avianews.com.

Before flying to Turkey, passengers must undergo a PCR test for coronavirus. The test must confirm that the person is not COVID-positive. It must be done no earlier than 72 hours before departure.

The testing requirement applies to travelers who are six and older. Those without a certificate of test results will not be allowed to board.

Tests are not mandatory for passengers who are traveling with a transfer at Turkish airports to third countries. For example, if a person flies from Baku to Istanbul, he needs to be tested for coronavirus. The test is not required if he flies from Baku to Mexico City and stops in Turkey for a connecting flight, and does not go through passport control.

Turkey began demanding a coronavirus test certificate from air passengers on Dec. 30, 2020, due to the rise in the COVID-19 incidence in the country. The measure was initially supposed to be valid until Feb. 28, 2021.