Those flying into the state of Alaska will need to get a COVID-19 test and have those results in hand before boarding their Alaska-bound jet.
If they don’t have their test results with them from tests taken in the previous 72 hours, there will be testers at the major airports to administer the swab tests. These tests will be administered in Anchorage, Juneau, Sitka, Fairbanks, Ketchikan and to some extent Petersburg and Wrangell.
Those who don’t want to take the airport COVID-19 test will be asked to self-isolate for two weeks after they arrive.
Gov. Mike Dunleavy said that officials are trying to minimize the impact on people’s lives, and to try to avoid destroying the economy, but that flying is a part of the Alaskan way of life. The new testing rules begin Friday and replace the mandatory 14-day quarantine that has been in effect.
Travelers buying tickets online will be advised by airlines about Alaska’s testing requirements, and will also be advised during check in. They’ll be directed to an official State of Alaska travel website for more details.
The state will also have a social media campaign to get the word out about the testing program, which will be conducted by contractors.
Travelers must be:
- Tested within 72 hours to five days prior to departure:
- May enter Alaska upon showing negative PCR test result for COVID-19
- May not enter Alaska if they tested positive
- Tested on arrival:
- – Upon arrival in Alaska may be tested for COVID-19 and register with the testing site
- – Must maintain quarantine at their own expense until test results are known
- – If positive for COVID-19, must isolate for duration of illness at their own expense
Critical infrastructure workforce:
- Must abide by their company’s community protective plan on file with the state
- None of the above (no prior test result, decline testing, and not a critical infrastructure worker)
- Must undergo 14-day quarantine at their own expense
Travelers will be asked to minimize in-person interactions for an additional 7-14 days after arrival and will be offered a follow-up test. Travelers must complete and sign the Alaska Travel Declaration form and present a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival.
Travelers are strongly encouraged to wear masks, practice social distancing and good hygiene, be respectful of the health of Alaskans, and to stay home if they are sick or at risk for COVID-19.
