COVID tests no longer required when entering United States from abroad

You’ll no longer have to take a COVID test if you’re traveling into the United States from abroad beginning this weekend.

A relief for some passengers who no longer have to scramble for a test in order to fly into the United States.

Passengers and doctors told WRAL News it was long overdue to ease this restriction dating back to January of 2021.

While no longer required, COVID testing before travel is still recommended.

After making it through a hectic check-in process at RDU Airport Dirk Munson and his family are ready for take-off.

"We have a cruise, couple days outside Rome and Paris as well," said Munson.

Add Barcelon and Spain to their itinerary as well. International travel during the pandemic is far from convenient.

"We had to get some special tests that could be taken online," said Munson. "Facetime with a doctor while we actually take the test and have them verify them."

Now, that practice is coming to an end.

Friday, The CDC lifted its COVID-19 testing requirement for airline travelers coming into the country.

A major relief for Al Stubbs who travels by air once a month.

"I am happy that they removed that testing guideline. I think it’s become more of a headache, certainly adding extra expense to traveling and inconvenience," said Stubbs. "If you’re traveling with a group [it] made it a lot more difficult."

Dr. Cameron Wolfe with Duke Health supports the updated guidance.

"I'm comfortable with it for a couple of reasons," said Wolfe. "Let’s be honest if you’re currently sitting in Boston, you’ve got as long a flight to get to LA as you do if you fly to Dublin. Why would force a test on one and not the other? It no longer made any medical sense."

It’s one less thing to worry about when Munson comes back home to the US in two weeks.

"Even better. Less hassle," said Munson.

The CDC plans to re-evaluate this decision in the next 90 days. During that time, officials will determine if it’s necessary to re-instate the testing requirement, should a new variant cause concern.