The CDC recently implemented a policy requiring all passengers taking international flights going to US to show proof of COVID-19 negative test results. This requirement must be complied with prior to boarding an international flight bound for U.S. to take effect January 28, 2021.

Although this particular requirement of the Centers for Disease control is common in many airports not only in the U.S but in other countries as well, Mexico is among the few that does not implement this flight boarding requirement. There have already be instances of international flight carrying COVID-19 infected passenger, which resulted to exposing other passengers to the virus and in turn infecting others as well.

Americans Traveling to Mexico are Unhappy With the New CDC Policy

Many Americans choose to take vacations in the beaches of Cabo San Lucas and Cancun in Mexico, despite being tagged as hotspot destinations. Mexico do not require travelers to quarantine or any taking tests when returning to the city as these islands are nearby. However, the laxity has drawn the CDC’s attention, which made it necessary for the government agency to implement the new policy.

As a result, bookings for Mexico travel destinations dropped and has reached an all time low.

United Airlines Responds to Impact of New CDC Travel Requirement

CDC’s new policy has also affected airlines as they are now experiencing cancellation of bookings for Mexico flights, as well as in other Caribbean beach resorts. According to United Airlines’ Chief Commercial Officer Andrew Nocella, the decrease greatly applies in Mexico’s beach spots.

They have not seen the same effect in flights bound for Asia, Europe, Latin America, since these countries have already been implementing strict boarding and arrival protocols in their airports. Nonetheless, since there is still great desire among American vacationers to stay in Mexico’s beach destinations, Mr. Nocella said the airline company is coordinating with local Mexico testing centers for them to act as partners. That way, United passengers will find it easier to comply with CDC’s new policy even if they insist on traveling to Mexico.