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(Alliance News) - EasyJet PLC is offering discounted coronavirus tests for passengers in a bid to boost demand for air travel.
The Luton-based airline said it has agreed a deal with two private testing firms to offer preferential rates to flyers.
Testing has become a requirement for entry to a number of easyJet's most popular destinations, such as Germany, Spain and Italy.
From December 15, people arriving in England from high-risk countries will be able to end their quarantine early if they receive a negative test taken at least five days after they land.
EasyJet said customers can buy a home testing kit from Confirm Testing for GBP75, retail price GBP119, or from CityDoc for GBP100, retail price GBP185.
A test in a clinic is available through CityDoc for GBP150, retail price GBP200.
EasyJet Chief Executive Johan Lundgren said: "I'm really pleased to be able to offer our customers convenient testing options at cheaper rates than are widely available on the market.
"This, coupled with the news that quarantine can be reduced with a negative test, is a key step towards travel getting back to normal.
"We continue to push for testing the efficacy of rapid testing technologies like antigen and Lamp testing which could be undertaken on departure at the airport and for further reducing quarantine, making it easier and less onerous for people to travel.
"It is clear that while testing will continue to be important to keeping people moving in the coming months, eventually the vaccine will play a role in reducing this and return travel to normal.
"Governments and industry need to work together to achieve this and we stand by ready to support where we can."
EasyJet expects to fly no more than around 20% of its planned capacity for the rest of the year, and recently recorded the first annual loss in its history by nosediving into the red by GBP1.27 billion.
A coronavirus testing facility opened at Gatwick on Monday, offering tests to passengers and airport employees for GBP60 each, and to the general public for GBP99.
Shares in easyJet were 3.6% lower in London on Monday afternoon at 808.40 pence each.
By Neil Lancefield, PA Transport Correspondent
source: PA
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