I haven't seen this topic since Italy has changed it's quarantine requirements at the beginning of September for those traveling or transiting through the UK.
First, we cannot change our flights. They were booked through our mileage plan and British Airways was the only option for us if we needed to fly business class, which was imperative due to my back condition.
My husband and I are scheduled to fly from Denver to LHR on October 10th which arrives on October 11th, with a 4 hour layover before connecting to our flight to Rome. We arrive in Rome on October 11th @ 7:25pm.
As far as the Covid-19 test, my question concerns the 48 hour rule for those transiting from the UK to Italy. I have seen it described 2 different ways. 1) 48 hours is calculated based on your originating airport departure flight (the USA), i.e. 10/10. And, 2) According to the Italian "Ministry of Foreign Affairs" Covid-19 survey website, the test must be done within 48 hours prior to arrival in Italy. So which is it?
Who checks the Covid-19 test results? Is it the originating airport, passport control in Rome or somewhere in between?
Between the 9 hour flight from Denver-London, 4 hour layover in Heathrow and 2 hour flight to Rome, travel time is over 15 ours from departure, plus time change of +8 hours.
Right now we are scheduled to get an antigen test by my primary care doctor on 10/8. But because I am concerned about this 48 hour rule, I am also going to schedule the Walgreens ID Now Rapid Test on 10/9 as well. They are saying you get the results in 24 hours which is the date of our departure. This obviously cuts things very close, hence, my nervousness.
So does anyone have practical experience or more insight about this rule?
Sorry for such a long post but I can't seem to find out much more information so to be absolutely safe I am inclined to go with the "48 hours prior to arrival in Italy" statement unless someone here knows exactly how this works.