The Covid-19 pandemic ravaging through the world today has ground international travel almost to a complete halt. Many countries currently have their borders closed to foreigners, such as Canada and Australia. The United States is currently barring entry from visitors from some countries hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic.
However, for some countries that do have their borders open to foreigners – such as Thailand – a “Fit to Fly” Certificate (also known as a “Fit to Fly” Letter) is required.
UPDATE: As of January 26, 2021, the CDC requires all returning passengers to the USA, who had a positive COVID-19 within the last 3 months to obtain a doctor’s note stating that you are cleared to travel. This doctor’s note is known as “documentation of recovery” and is very similar to the fit to fly note. (For more information about the letter from a healthcare provider required by the CDC to clear a recovered COVID-19 patient for international travel, click here)
What is it and how do you obtain it?
A “Fit to Fly” Certificate is a special type of doctor’s note certifying that you are healthy and are able to board a plane without any risks to yourself or others.
In the age of Covid-19, a “Fit To Fly” Letter specifically means that you do not have any symptoms concerning for Covid-19.
In some cases, the traveler may even be required to have a negative COVID-19 PCR test done, the results of which will then be noted in the “Fit to Fly” Health Certificate.
A PCR test is a diagnostic test that involves taking a swab from your nose or throat and sending the sample to the lab for analysis. It is more accurate than a “Rapid Test” and is the preferred test for many countries that require a “Fit To Fly” Certificate prior to entry.
If you require a “Fit To Fly” Certificate from a physician for travel, QuickMD is able to help. We have worked closely with airlines since the beginning of the pandemic to ensure that our certificate complies with airline and government regulations.
We recommend you book an appointment with one of our doctors within 48-72 hours of your scheduled departure. You will then receive the certificate by email shortly after your consultation.