Passengers travelling with Alaska Airlines to Hawaii can now opt to avoid lines and bypass the airport screening process once they arrive in Hawaii with an approved negative COVID-19 test by using Alaska’s Pre-Clear programme.
The airline’s Pre-Clear programme launched this week in coordination with the State of Hawaii and is the first of its kind to enable travellers to obtain an exemption from the state’s mandatory 14-day quarantine before departure. Once a passenger has been pre-cleared they are given a pre-clear wristband at check-in or at the departure gate.
Hawaii began a pre-testing programme back in October, which allowed passengers entering the state having tested negative for COVID-19 in advance of their arrival to proceed without the current two-week mandatory quarantine. However travellers have been subjected to long wait times on arriving in the islands as part of this programme. As a result Alaska received approval to pre-clear guests who complete the state’s requirements prior to check-in, so that no additional screening is needed after arrival at Hawaii’s airports.
“As guests start planning their 2021 travel to Hawaii, we’re focused on making the journey as safe, easy and hassle-free as possible,” said Ben Minicucci, Alaska Airlines’ President. “We appreciate Hawaaii’s partnership to help ensure our guests are well-informed and visit these beautiful islands responsibly, wearing a mask and following the state’s safety guidelines.”
Having successfully piloted the Pre-Clear programme over the last week with flights from the West Coast to Maui, the airline plans to roll out the programme on all flights to Oahu and Kona on Hawaii Island.
“We appreciate Alaska’s commitment in helping to keep our community safe,” said Hawaii Governor, David Ige. “Alaska has been a true partner from the very start of the programme by communicating with their guests about the state’s requirements so that they are well prepared for their visit. Alaska’s Pre-Clear programme adds another layer of safety by helping to ensure that the majority, if not all, of Alaska’s guests arrive in Hawaii with proof of their negative COVID-19 test results.”
