BIRMINGHAM AIRPORT WELCOMES THE RETURN OF FLIGHTS AS NEW SAFETY MEASURES INTRODUCED
BIRMINGHAM AIRPORT WELCOMES THE RETURN OF FLIGHTS AS NEW SAFETY MEASURES INTRODUCED
Birmingham Airport is welcoming the return of passengers following a period of reduced demand due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Services have recommenced with easyjet, Air France, Wizz Air, Loganair and Lufthansa, as well as increased flying from KLM and Ryanair. Further domestic and international flights are set to restart from 1st July 2020.
Passengers travelling from Birmingham Airport will experience a number of new measures which are being implemented for both their safety and wellbeing, and that of our colleagues.
An enhanced cleaning regime is in place across the airport site, with continual disinfectant performed on all customer touch points. Hand sanitiser stations can be found throughout the customer journey.
The airport is strongly recommending that passengers wear a face covering whilst in the terminal and should be aware that it is mandatory to wear a face covering in the security search area and on airport buses.
Passengers are encouraged to check in on-line, pre-book services, use contactless payments and download electronic travel documentation to avoid queuing and minimise face-to-face contact.
Social distancing is encouraged throughout the site, in line with government guidance. Where this is not possible, additional mitigations have been put in place, such as physical barriers and shields.
Only flying customers will be allowed into the terminal from the 1st July. This is to manage the number of people inside the building as traffic volumes increase.
Measures are in place to reduce face-to-face contact between customers and airport personnel but where this is not possible, such as check-in and in store payment points, perspex screens will be used.
Thermal imaging is currently being trialled and is likely to be rolled out for departing passengers from 1st July, in time for increased flying programmes.
Nick Barton, Birmingham Airport’s CEO, said, “It’s great to see airlines reinstating flights from Birmingham after a period of reduced traffic due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“The safety of our customers and employees is our number one priority. We have introduced a number of new measures for their wellbeing, with cleaning and hygiene, social distancing, thermal imaging, face coverings and physical barriers underpinning the new airport environment.
“Birmingham Airport is well and truly open for business and we look forward to seeing the airport come alive again in the coming weeks and welcoming customers back to the airport.”
The airport reminds customers not to travel if they are experiencing any Coronavirus symptoms. Guidance can be found at gov.uk
Customers should check with their airline for specific details regarding on board regulations and services as these may vary by operator. The retail, food and beverage offer at the airport is currently limited, but more outlets will be reopening in the coming weeks, with a range of pre-order services.
During the pandemic, Birmingham Airport has remained open to serve a reduced number of passenger flights as well as cargo, military and medical operations.
