The RT-PCR test is a Reverse-Transcriptase polymerase chain reaction test. It’s a test to detect genetic material from a specific organism, such as a virus.

The Coronavirus home collection test kit contains a nasal and throat swab which collect a sample of cells which is sent back to a lab for testing. The lab performs a very sensitive test that looks for the RNA of the virus using a technique called RT-PCR. RT-PCR tests work by detecting specific genetic material known as viral RNA within the virus. By detecting viral RNA, which will be present in the body before symptoms of the disease are present, the tests can tell whether or not someone has the virus very early on.

Every country has specific testing requirements. It is prudent to check the government resources for your country of travel for information such as the test type required and the time window you are required to take  it in. While most countries may mandate a PCR test with a negative test result 72 hours prior to your departure time, others may ask for a negative PCR test result 24 hours prior to your departure from the UK.

We only provide PCR testing as it is the most sensitive form of testing. 

We do not offer antigen testing. 

We have three (3) testing options available for Fit to Fly with varying turnaround times and availability in different localities. 

Our Fit to Fly for £95 is the postal service. We post the home test kit to you and you are required to post the sample back to us using a priority mail box. 

Our Fit to Fly Airport is available at the designated airports; Manchester, Birmingham and East Midlands 7 days a week 7 am – 7 pm. 

Our Fit to Fly Express and Fit to Fly 24 are only available at our collection pharmacy in Romford and Greenwich Monday – Saturdays. Opening hours vary, please contact our customer care before booking your test.

Results reporting varies with each self test kit

• Fit to Fly (£95) results are reported within 24 hours of the laboratory receiving your sample.
• Fit to Fly Airport results are reported within 4 – 6 hours of sample collection
• Fit to Fly Express results are reported within 3 hours of the laboratory receiving your sample.
• Fit to fly 24 result are reported within 24 guaranteed of sample collection. In most cases, results are reported on the sample day. 
• Test to Release (£95) results are reported within 24 hour of the laboratory receiving your sample.
• Test to Release Express results are reported within 24 guaranteed of sample collection. In most cases, results are reported on the sample day
• Day 2 and Day 2 & 8 results are reported within 36 hours of the laboratory receiving your sample.

Yes, PCR home test kits for Covid 19 are an acceptable method of testing approved by the UK Government.

You will need to check the collection times for the nearest Priority mail box near you or the opening times for the closest Post office to you. This can be found using the following link

https://www.royalmail.com/services-near-you#/

Please note your sample may be delayed if you post on a Saturday as the Royal Mail does not deliver on a Sunday or Bank holidays.

If you have opted for the Fit to fly express or Fit to Fly 24, you sample will be collected from collection centres. 

Last collection time for same day results by 10pm is 2:30pm.