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Expert Guide: COVID-19 Testing Requirements for International Travel to the US with Sun Country Airlines

Expert Guide: COVID-19 Testing Requirements for International Travel to the US with Sun Country Airlines

On January 26, 2021, the CDC issued an order requiring all passengers arriving in the United States from international destinations to present proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within three calendar days before departure, or proof of recovery from COVID-19.

Sun Country Airlines is committed to simplifying this process for travelers. We've dedicated a section on our website with detailed information on how this requirement impacts your trip, including convenient testing locations at our international destinations. To provide deeper insights, our Director of Security and Emergency Response, Bryan Kobos, and Regional Director, Jane Thede, who oversees Mexico operations, visited key locations to experience the process firsthand and share practical advice.

  • Expert Guide: COVID-19 Testing Requirements for International Travel to the US with Sun Country Airlines

In Cancun, we stayed at the Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, which offers complimentary COVID-19 testing for guests staying at least four nights. Upon arrival, we completed a health assessment at check-in. Mexico implemented robust precautions, including temperature screenings at restaurants, mandatory masks, and sanitization stations for hands and shoes. The on-site rapid antigen test took under five minutes, with immediate results. The next day, we collected the official hospital printout from the front desk for the airport. Alternatively, Cancun Airport provides rapid antigen tests for $17 USD, with Jane receiving results in 15 minutes. The CDC accepts either a viral RT-PCR test or rapid antigen test. Sun Country agents in Cancun are fully trained on requirements, and most passengers tested at their resorts. Jane flew back to Minneapolis, while I took a 30-minute ferry to Cozumel.

Expert Guide: COVID-19 Testing Requirements for International Travel to the US with Sun Country Airlines

Cozumel's crystal-clear waters and stunning views from The Westin Cozumel made the trip worthwhile. Though the resort didn't offer on-site testing, they arranged transportation to nearby facilities. Cozumel Airport also provides quick on-site testing, with results in 15 minutes. At departure from Sun Country international destinations, simply present your negative test result to an agent and complete the CDC attestation form.

Expert Guide: COVID-19 Testing Requirements for International Travel to the US with Sun Country Airlines

We recommend visiting Sun Country's COVID-19 Travel Restrictions page for destination-specific testing locations, including hotels and resorts offering tests—some even provide free or discounted stays if you test positive.

With sunny destinations, pristine beaches, ultra-low fares, and vacation packages, now's the time to plan your getaway. Get to Going!

Written by Sun Country Airlines' Bryan Kobos, Director of Security & Emergency Response, and Jane Thede, Regional Director.

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