The US administration is expected to announce today (Friday) the abolition of the obligation to perform corona tests before entering the country. This obligation has been in effect since January 2021 and it requires all those entering the US, local and foreign citizens, to present a corona test done a day before takeoff.
The United States allows only vaccinated foreigners to enter its territory. No official announcement has yet been made on the matter, but according to reports, even those who are not vaccinated will be able to enter the United States subject to the presentation of a corona test.
Airlines and those engaged in the tourism industry have put pressure on the government in order to abolish the duty of testing which in their view harms the recovery of the industry. Although on the other hand the companies are reporting a quick recovery: this is how Delta Air noted in its recent reports that the company estimates that in the next quarter it will reach 2019 numbers in the corresponding quarter.
Any announcement of easing of restrictions is affecting the congestion at airports that characterizes what is happening these days. Among the other reasons for the congestion, along with the shortage of manpower, one can also mention the lengthening of the pre-flight inspection process during which ground attendants are required to check the passenger documents according to the requirements of the states. Passengers will still be required to fill out and submit forms.