India’s first airport COVID testing facility opens at Delhi’s T3

International passengers arriving at Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) can undergo COVID-19 test at the airport itself now. Delhi airport recently got the first-of-its-kind COVID testing facility which has the capacity to test up to 2500 samples a day, whereas results will also be delivered within 4-6 hours. Reportedly, it is believed to be among the quickest turnaround times for a RT-PCR COVID-19 test in the world.

Although it is not mandatory for international passengers to undergo the test at the airport, however if one tests negative for the virus at the airport, he can get away with the mandatory institutional quarantine, officials stated.
Currently, all international passengers arriving in Delhi are required to be institutionally quarantined. Also, those flying with a connecting Vande Bharat flight can quarantine themselves at their destination. However, those who have an RT-PCR negative report, they are allowed to journey onward and get exempted from institutional quarantine. In case, one needs to get this exemption, the RT-PCR test has to be conducted at least 96 hours before the journey.
Those travelling without a valid COVID negative certificate can book a slot in advance, the results of which will be available within four-six hours. Those opting for this process, are advised to book the slot an hour before the time of arrival and around four-six hours before the departure flight.
Referring to this, a DIAL official stated that the test will cost around INR 2400, whereas waiting in the lounge, will cost INR 2600. This will be accompanied with services, such as meals, juice, water etc. And those wanting to opt for hotel facility, they will be able to do so, but the tariff will vary from hotel to hotel.