British Airways is intending to expand its VeriFLY digital health app trial across all of its international flights operating into the UK. The airline says this is in response to tightening border controls by the UK Government.
The expansion is designed to help those eligible to travel to navigate the changing entry requirements and facilitate a seamless journey by ensuring customers are ready to fly and have the appropriate documentation in place before departing for the airport.
The expansion, which will come into effect on 15 February, is part of British Airways’ work to explore digital health travel wallet and document verification solutions. IAG, British Airways’ parent company, is working closely with IATA on the association’s Travel Pass app which is planned to launch in the coming weeks.
Sean Doyle, British Airways’ CEO said: “We know that digital health apps and wallets will likely become commonplace when travel opens up again. We are exploring every available solution to support eligible customers and the UK Government both during this period of limited travel and in preparation for a time when restrictions are eased, when we hope many more people will be able to resume flying again.”
VeriFLY can be downloaded to a mobile device and is designed to offer peace of mind before travel, ensuring that customers meet the entry requirements of their destinations. The carrier says using the VeriFLY app will be optional and customers will also continue to be able to show they meet a country’s entry requirements at check-in.
Ensuring full compliance
The pioneering VeriFLY app is the work of private software company Daon. The app allows travellers combine travel verification documents and Covid-19 test results in one place. According to British Airways, certified customers will be fast-tracked through the airport where specially designated desks will be available for check in.
British Airways announced earlier this year that it would be the first UK airline to start trialling VeriFLY. The carrier has been giving customers the option of using the app since 4 February on all flights from London to the US and the trial has been extended to offer customers the same option on inbound flights to the UK from the US.
BA’s partner American Airlines also offers customers the opportunity to use VeriFLY when travelling to the US from all international destinations.
Have you used the VeriFLY app yet? Let us know in the comments!
