USA lifts travel ban for vaccinated travellers — everything you need to know to fly to America in 2021

USA is planning to ease up the restrictions for international travellers starting in November. Looking for flights to America or wondering whether you need to be vaccinated? We answer the most common questions regarding flying to USA In 2021 below.

Flying to America after border reopening? Here is everything you need to know!

When can I fly to America again?

The USA lifts travel ban for international travellers (including the UK and Europe) on the 8th of November.

Do I need to be vaccinated to fly to the USA?

Yes, you must be fully vaccinated against the coronavirus in order to travel to America.

Do I need to have a negative COVID test to fly to America?

Yes, even if you are vaccinated, you must show proof of a negative COVID test taken 3 days prior to boarding the plane in order to fly to America after the travel restrictions are lifted.

Do I need to wear a mask on the plane to America?

Yes, face masks are currently mandatory on all American and European flights. Additionally, remember that on flights to the USA only children under the age of two are exempt from wearing a mask.

=> Learn more about face mask rules in planes

What airlines offer cheap flights to America?

If you are flying from the UK, your most cost-efficient option will be most likely a 1-stop flight with TAP Air Portugal.

You can also choose to take a more expensive, non-stop flight with airlines such as Virgin Atlantic or British Airways.

Alternatively, some American airlines are also flying to the UK, including Delta.

However, we recommend taking a British or a European airline when flying to the United States. Why? We explain it in more detail down below.

What if my flight to the USA is cancelled?

As the current pandemic situation is still not fully under control — and as the Christmas flight delay season is approaching — it’s entirely possible that some flights to the USA might get cancelled.

If this happens, you should know that you are better protected under the British and EU regulations.

According to them, you should get a full money refund (not a voucher!) if your flight is cancelled and you are not taking an alternative flight.

Additionally, if your flight is cancelled fewer than 14 days before the departure date, you can be entitled to both a refund and compensation of £520.

If you are flying to the USA with a British or European airline, these regulations apply to both inbound and outbound flights. However, if you are flying with an American airline, only your flight from the UK is covered. See the table below the next section for more details on this issue.

=> Learn more about post-Brexit air passenger rights in the UK

What if my flight to the USA is delayed?

If you arrive at your destination at least 3 hours late, you are entitled to compensation of £520.

Just like with flight cancellations, these regulations apply to all flights with British and European airlines; but if you are flying with an American airline, only the flight to the USA will be covered.

How can I claim a refund and compensation if my flight to America is cancelled or delayed?

First, check if you are indeed eligible using our free, no-obligation Claim Calculator. You can do it within a minute right from your phone or your computer.

Then, we can help you get your money back based on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis. We will process your claim fast, get it to the right people at the airline and — if the airline denies your claim — fight for your rights in court.

Just a few minutes of your time are needed: fill in the details of your flight, upload all relevant documents using your phone or computer, and then go back to doing what you love while we take care of all the paperwork and legal proceedings. It’s that simple.

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