Turkey Lifts Suspension on Flights from the UK

Turkey has lifted the ban on direct flights from the United Kingdom, and foreign travelers will no longer be required to present a Covid-19 vaccination certificate upon arrival.

Arriving passengers would only be required to have a negative PCR test result at the border, according to the main Mediterranean destination.

Turkey is also taking a number of steps this summer to reassure and attract tourists, including a “priority” vaccination program for hotel and other tourist workers.

Covid testing facilities will be available at more than 8,000 accredited hotels as part of the country’s Safe Tourism Certification Program, allowing visitors to take tests before leaving the country, with PCR tests costing about £26. (well below the cost of the same tests in the UK). Tests are also available at the international airports in Turkey.

In a separate step, Turkey is offering tourists a special insurance plan starting at €15 that covers Covid-related costs such as treatment, medication, and emergency care if they are admitted to a state-owned or private hospital during their stay. Extra lodging costs are also covered by the insurance.