Free Testing for Departing Travellers
May 19, 2021 Marsha Mowers
Passengers departing Toronto Pearson International Airport needing a PCR test to board can get a free one instead of having to pay for testing at a private company, which can cost as much as $230 CDN per test.
The free tests are part of a study on the effectiveness of PCR vs Antigen testing, more commonly known as rapid tests.
This means that at each PCR appointment, participants will receive two tests – both a PCR test and an antigen test.
Currently passengers must present a negative test that’s been done within 72 hours of travel. The free testing is by appointment-only and runs daily from 8:00am to 4:00pm ET.
Testing is made available at the airport as part of a research study supported in part by funding from the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP). Testing services are made available at the airport through Fionet, together with Alpha Labs, and OnPoint1 Health, and under the supervision of a licensed medical doctor.
Travellers must bring a copy of their itinerary to show airport security to gain access to the testing site, which is in Terminal 1, Level 2 South Landing. A second site will be launching soon in Terminal 3.
To book an appointment, click here.
About the Author
Marsha Mowers made the move to editorial side of travel after many years working in destination marketing where she represented places such as NYC and Las Vegas. Her experience on “both sides” of the industry has put her in a unique position to provide valuable context to both readers and trade partners. Marsha also serves as Director of Content for TravelPulse Canada
