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Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport announces 'Stay Healthy, Fly Safe' action plan

Posted 5/20/20

Efforts to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus have altered the most typical and routine daily behaviors. Air travel has not escaped this new reality.

The airline industry has been significantly …

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Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport announces 'Stay Healthy, Fly Safe' action plan

Posted

Efforts to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus have altered the most typical and routine daily behaviors. Air travel has not escaped this new reality.

The airline industry has been significantly impacted as the country shut down and people were encouraged to stay at home. Nationwide, year-over-year passenger activity numbers have dropped an average of 95%, according to a release.

Since the global pandemic began in March, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport has worked to modify its operations to protect employees and customers from the COVID-19 virus.

Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is owned and operated by the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority. PMGAA consists of representation from Mesa, Gilbert, Queen Creek, Gila River Indian Community, Phoenix, and Apache Junction.

As states across the nation begin to reopen, Gateway Airport has seen a steady increase in the number of air travelers flying in and out of the airport. In preparation for the return of passengers, the airport established an action plan called "Stay Healthy, Fly Safe."

The plan follows recommended Centers for Disease Control guidelines and focuses on the health and safety of all passengers, guests and airport employees. It includes:

  • Signage and floor markings throughout terminal promoting physical distancing.
  • All Gateway Airport staff are required to wear face coverings when in the terminal.
  • Enhanced terminal cleaning and sanitizing schedule with a focus on high-touch areas.
  • Hand sanitizing stations located throughout the terminal area.

    Reduced terminal seating capacity.
  • Installation of plexiglass barriers at airline ticket counters and TSA checkpoint.
  • Allegiant Air will be providing a health safety kit to all travelers onboard the aircraft that includes a mask, gloves and sanitary wipes.
  • Alternate use of baggage claim carousels when feasible.
  • Ray Road Economy Lot and shuttle service is closed until further notice.
  • Encourage use of the Cell Phone Lot for curbside passenger pick-up.

Updates, changes and further information about this plan can be found at gatewayairport.com/coronavirus or on Gateway Airport social media channels.

“Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority would like to thank our customers, airport partners, and staff for embracing the 'Stay Healthy, Fly Safe' initiative,” Executive Director/CEO J. Brian O’Neill, A.A.E., said in the release. “Our goal is to provide a safe and healthy travel experience for everyone coming to Gateway Airport.”

For more information about Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport go to  gatewayairport.com.