LNG workers flying out of YLW will get rapid COVID-19 tests

Photo: Google Maps

The COVID-19 rapid testing for LNG workers will take place in YLW's long-term parking lot.

LNG Canada workers flying from Kelowna to Terrace will be part of a new COVID-19 screening program that begins Tuesday.

Kelowna International Airport and LNG Canada have teamed up on the initiative, which will provide rapid antigen detection testing for workers who are heading north to the Kitimat site.

“We are proud to support an innovative way to help keep essential workers, and the communities in which they work, safe during the pandemic,” Kelowna airport director Sam Sammadar said in a press release.

“Implementing rapid antigen tests helps ensure the LNG Canada project continues to progress safely while keeping British Columbians working.”

A temporary modular clinic will be set up at the airport’s long-term parking lot, where the workers will be screened. Tests will be available within 20 minutes, at which point they will be allowed to proceed if their results are negative.

All LNG Canada project workers who go through the rapid testing process are still subject to existing travel measures, including airline health screening questions and temperature checks.

Canadian North will be chartering approximately 100 Kitimat workers to Terrace per week. YLW officials said the testing will not impact other travellers departing or arriving.