Even with passenger traffic significantly down, Iowa's largest airport is making changes to make passengers and employees' experiences at the facility safer amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Des Moines is launching a new effort called, “FLY DSM: Forward Together” that encourages best practices for physical distancing, use of face coverings and highlights efforts the Airport has made to keep everyone safe.
“As Iowa’s largest airport, we have already begun welcoming passengers back with the reopening of our state,” said Kevin Foley, Executive Director of the Des Moines Airport Authority. “As people begin to travel, safety remains our top priority which means implementing new measures to minimize the spread of COVID-19. We want the community to know that when they are ready to fly, we are ready to welcome them back.”
Travelers over the Memorial Day weekend may have noticed several of these changes already in place. The remaining measures will be in place by June 1, 2020, if not sooner.
SAFETY MEASURES:
- Face Coverings: Required for all Airport Authority employees in public areas; all travelers and guests are strongly encouraged to wear face coverings when in the terminal
- Cleaning: Increased frequency and enhanced cleaning throughout the terminal including regular use of fogging disinfectant
- Plexiglass Safeguards: Plexiglass barriers in high-traffic areas
- Education: Signage encouraging proper physical distancing and health practices located throughout the terminal
- Hand Sanitizers: Additional hand sanitizing stations located in high-touch areas
- TSA Checkpoint: Reconfigured security lanes to maximize physical distancing
Passengers can take precautions to keep themselves safe, as well.
- Give Yourself Time: Travelers are encouraged to arrive 90 minutes before their flight to reduce congestion and allow for additional screening time as physical distancing is implemented
- Reduce Touch Points: Check-in online or through mobile apps and bring carry-on luggage when possible to minimize touch points in the airport
- Keep Yourself Healthy: Wear a face covering and wash your hands frequently
Airport officials also suggest that individuals picking up or dropping off passengers should remain in their cars unless they are assisting unaccompanied minors, passengers with disabilities, or others who may need assistance. When picking up passengers, they can take advantage of free parking in the cell phone lot.