THE national flag carrier has welcomed the Cabinet announcement that it has dropped the 72 hours pre-departure COVID-19 test requirement for Solomon Islands-bound travelers.
In a statement yesterday, Solomon Airlines conveyed its gratitude and at the same time informed travelers of the Cabinet announcement.
“It’s official! For all fully COVID-19 vaccinated passengers that pre-departure COVID-19 testing and pre-approval prior to departure is no longer required for entry into Solomon Islands!
“Just show your proof of full COVID-19 vaccination certificate at check-in and again to immigration on arrival in Solomon Islands.
“Unvaccinated Solomon Islands citizens can also return home but pre-departure testing requirements still remain. Can’t wait to welcome you back to our home!” the statement said.
The statement added that the new requirements have come into effect from Tuesday 11 October 2022.
This means, travelers who are not Solomon Islands citizens and are 12 years or older are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
“A certificate of proof of vaccination is required and this will need to be presented on arrival in Solomon Islands. COVID-19 vaccination is required at least 4 weeks before departure to be eligible to travel.
“Where two vaccination doses are required to complete vaccination, this period commences following the completion of the second dose. Children under 12 years are not required to be vaccinated,” the statement added.
“For Solomon Islands citizens COVID-19 vaccination is not required. However, if a travelling citizen of 12 years of age or older is not fully COVID-19 vaccinated, a negative COVID-19 PCR test result is required to be taken within 72 hours of departure, or otherwise, as instructed to the citizen by official exemption from the Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services.
“Proof of negative COVID-19 PCR test result is required to be provided to immigration on arrival in Solomon Islands.
“All of these requirements are mandatory and the passenger’s responsibility in order to be able to board an international flight to the Solomon Islands.
“If any of these requirements are not completed, then boarding will be denied and no-show conditions will apply,” the statement said.
Passengers have been advised to wear a face mask at all times on the flight.
Meanwhile, Solomon Airlines had advised passengers holding valid unused Solomon Airlines tickets that they can use these as credit towards available flights and any fare or tax difference will need not be paid.
By MOFFAT MAMU
