A NEW coronavirus testing facility has been launched at Manchester Airport today, December 3, for all its passengers.

The full range of Covid-19 tests, including rapid and antibody tests, are now available in a purpose-built facility just outside the main terminal building.

Passengers will also have the chance to book discounted pre-flight testing appointments on the high street at selected Boots UK stores.

The move will give passengers more flexibility when planning trips, and comes in the week that the UK Government lifts England’s international travel ban.

Karen Smart, managing director, said: “As the UK emerges from a ban on international travel, we know our passengers are keen to start flying again, but that many of Manchester Airport’s most popular destinations, such as the Canary Islands, require a negative test before you arrive.

“This new facility will make the process of showing you’re infection-free when planning and booking a holiday as easy and cost-effective as possible in the current circumstances.

"Our new booking platform makes it easy to select the right test for your destination, and at the location that is most convenient for you.

"Located right by the terminal building means passengers can either opt for a test on the day of departure before they go through security, or visit in the run up to their journey at a time to suit them."

Some countries allow pre-departure tests in order to shorten or completely alleviate quarantine requirements in the destination, while others require them to gain entry.

Passengers will also be able to book the tests they need to shorten their self-isolation period upon return under the UK Government’s ‘Test to Release’ scheme.

The scheme, announced last week, will launch on December 15th and allow travellers arriving from higher risk countries to reduce their period of quarantine by taking a test five days after they arrive in the UK.

Ms Smart added: “This also means Manchester is perfectly placed to support the introduction of a UK arrivals testing regime, which will enable travellers to reduce the length of time they need to self-isolate if they test negative after five days.

“This is the latest example of Manchester Airports Group leading the way as we look to work with Government and the rest of our industry to get Britain flying again.”

The airport has teamed up with testing firm Collinson and its prices start at £40 for antibody tests, £50 for rapid antigen tests, £79 for the more sensitive RT-LAMP tests and £99 for NHS-standard RT-PCR tests.