The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is developing a new phone app.
It hopes the IATA Travel Pass will help resume flights and open borders without having to quarantine.
Several airlines such as Singapore Airlines are testing the app. Usage of the app is by invitation only so far. It’s interesting to note that not a single North American carrier is testing the app. Other applications are in test such as VeriFLY with American Airlines.
How will the IATA Travel Pass works
The IATA Travel App is free to download and provides 4 elements to travelers.
The first is a global registry of health requirements, where passengers will find accurate information on country admission and other important travel requirements. Check IATA interactive travel regulations map.
Then the global registry of testing/vaccination centers which lists all of the recognized testing centers at any departure airport.
Thirdly, the lab app will help travelers find test and lab centers. It will also allow to book appointments.
Lastly, the digital passport module which contains COVID-19 test results and vaccination certifications. This information is shared with airlines and authorities (customs). It will allow for a seamless and toucheless travel experience at every step.
How to get the app
he IATA Travel Pass is a mobile application and is currently available on the Apple Store. Using the app is by invitation only.
Here is the extensive list of airlines trailing the pass: Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad, IAG, Malaysia Airlines, Copa Airlines, RwandAir, Air New Zealand, Qantas, airBaltic, Gulf Air, ANA, AirSerbia, Thai, Thai Smile, Korean Air, Neos, Virgin Atlantic, Ethiopian, Vietjet air, Hong Kong Airlines, Japan Airlines, Iberia, Saudia, Swiss, El Al, Pegasus, Philippine Airlines, Vueling.
The IATA Travel Pass is not the only one out there. But it might be a gold standard as it serves its member airlines and would be a no brainer for goverments to adopt. This would avoid unessecary duplication and excessive costs.
That’s always been IATA’s mission and role – help airlines through clear global rules and standards across all lines of business.
