The Airports Authority of Trinidad and Tobago has moved to put in place stricter health and safety measures, to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 spread at the nation’s airports.
In an official advisory issued on Saturday, the AATT encourages travellers to comply with the new measures, which must be observed at every stage of progress through the airports.
Among the primary measures are the mandatory wearing of face masks and engaging in physical distancing.
The Authority also advises that it has increased the number of available sanitisation stations throughout the airports’ facilities, as well as put markers in place to help passengers adhere to physical distancing guidelines.
The full text of the AATT’s advisory on its reinforced health and safety measures, follows…
HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURES AT AIRPORTS TO PROTECT AGAINST THE SPREAD OF COVID-19
Airports Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (“the Authority”) has implemented health and safety protocols at the Piarco and ANR Robinson International Airports to protect travellers, employees, stakeholders and airport users from the spread of COVID-19.
When arriving at the airports, persons can expect to see some additional measures as follows:
■ Face masks are required for entry into Terminals and must be worn at all points throughout the Terminal buildings;
■ Temperature screening takes place at entrances and before security check points;
■ Increased hand sanitization stations are available;
■ Physical distancing must be observed at all times;
Passengers are advised of the following installations at the check-in area:
■ Sneeze guards at the check-in counters;
■ Increased number of hand sanitization stations;
■ Physical distancing markers to guide responsible queuing;
■ Regular sanitization of all surfaces;
■ No gathering of standby passengers.
For added convenience, passengers are encouraged to use the airlines’ web check-in services or the self-check-in kiosks at the terminal buildings for quicker and more efficient check-in processing.
At the security checkpoints:
■ Masks must remain on;
■ Temperature screening will be conducted before the checkpoints;
■ Physical distancing is required in queues;
■ Passport bio-pages and departing flight details must be on hand;
■ Security screening trays are sanitized frequently;
■ Instructions of Security Officers and signage must be observed to allow for faster processing.
While at the Departure Lounges:
■ Face Masks should be worn;
■ Social distancing must be practised at seating areas;
■ Increased sanitization stations are available;
■ Seats and other frequently used surfaces are regularly sanitized;
■ Passport bio-pages and departing flight details should be ready for presentation to the agent at the gate;
■ Physical distancing should be observed when queuing at gates.
Throughout the airports, there are increased hand sanitization stations, the observance of distance seating, enhanced cleaning protocols and the routine disinfection of security trays and general surfaces. Floor markings and signage are there to provide guidance on social distancing in queues and general areas. We have held several sensitization and training sessions with our members of staff, who are ready and willing to assist you on your journey.
The Authority continues to be attentive and diligent in the observance of international best practices which are applicable to our airports. We continue to be guided by the Ministry of Health in implementing measures to reduce the risks of the spread of the COVID-19.
The Authority wishes to reassure all stakeholders that your safety is top priority and we are making every effort to restore your confidence to travel once again. We thank you for your support and cooperation as we strive to create an enjoyable and safe travel experience.