Thumbs up for airport

We may be past the peak of the first wave of the virus, but there are reports of more Covid infections across many parts of Europe.

Gibraltar’s airport will have to remain on guard in the fight to stave off as many virus infections as possible.

Terence Lopez, the air terminal director at the airport, is so far positive to what the reaction has been since reopening the airways.

“Gibraltar Airport is coping very well with the new measures and all the arrangements that were planned are now in place and functioning satisfactorily.” he enthused.

“The biggest positive is the increase of four weekly flights in July to twenty five in August, with a similar frequency expected in September and the negatives have to be the uncertainty going forward, but the we are coping well and have the flexibility in our approach to Covid to be able to respond to any developments.”

NEW GUIDELINES

As anticipated, the airport is now operating under a new set of guidelines to ensure that it is Covid secure, and safe for staff and passengers alike.

Measures that are currently in place include alcohol based sanitisers situated at several stations, in the departure and arrival terminals.

Social distancing has been applied in front of every public counter, with stickers placed on the floor of every queuing area, outlining the correct distance between queuing passengers.

Seats that are available to the public have been reduced in capacity, so people are kept apart.

There has also been an extensive disinfection regime, that includes thoroughly cleaning the chairs, washrooms and touch surfaces such as handrails.

Announcements will be made over the public address system if there is any flouting of distancing stipulations.

Foot patrols will also take place in the airport, in order to enforce that distancing policies are being followed.

Future guidelines will include face mask wearing for those departing Gibraltar as the enter the air terminal.

This is viewed as an important measure, as it will provide staff with an extra layer of protection for staff.

SPECIAL FACILITY

A special facility for the most vulnerable is also to be created, the airport believes this will be easy to achieve; as already those with hidden disabilities and passengers with reduced mobility have the option of being screened at the staff search security area, and then are escorted to the departure lounge.

Entry into the air terminal has also been restricted since 17 July, where only passengers who are travelling will be allowed access around the check in area, and the number of those allowed to meet and greet will also be eased.

There have been collaborations between airport and government, in what are the necessary requirements for the airport to be operational in the current climate.

All the measures taken were part of a consultation process, between the stakeholders within the air terminal and with the Public Health Department.

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01-09-2020 PANORAMAdailyGIBRALTAR