The COVID-19 pandemic has changed life as we know it, and even as countries begin to reopen one thing has been made clear- nothing will be the same.
This idea is especially true when it comes to travel. Flights around the world continue to be restricted and limited, and even as guidelines start to loosen airports are now highlighting new rules to help reduce any further spread.
The Bahamas’ busiest and largest airport, Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) in Nassau has recently outlined new protocols for when it resumes full operations.
The Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD) has released its reactivation plans in anticipation of increased air traffic. Here are just a few ways that travel through LPIA will change:
- Passengers will now need to arrive at least three hours before their scheduled flight
- Only ticketed passengers and airport employees will be allowed in terminal buildings, with an exception for people that may need special assistance such as elderly passengers, disabled persons, or unaccompanied minors.
- To observe social distancing, floor markers and signage will be in place at check-in areas, pre-board security checkpoints, customs and immigration halls, and in retail and food and beverage spaces
- Physical distancing will be mandatory at baggage carousels
- Seating in post-security hold rooms has been reduced by 30%
- Seating in food courts and check-in halls have also been reduced
- Additional barriers have been added to limit crowding in public areas
- Plexiglas barriers have been installed in check-in halls
- All airport workers and passengers will be required to wear a mask or facial covering inside airport terminals
- All amenities such as water fountains and play areas will remain closed until further notice
In addition to these new rules, NAD said that airport cleaning teams will also continue to sanitize high touch areas. This includes escalator handrails, elevator buttons, and door handles.
“We are putting the necessary measures in place to ensure the safety of our employees, passengers, and airport partners. Once commercial travel ramps up, there will be visible and necessary changes to the way we conduct business in terminal. Even with the changes, our commitment to providing the best experience for LPIA users remains the same,” said Vernice Walkine, President and CEO of NAD.