Coronavirus: Banjul Airport to reopen under tight health regulations
Banjul, Gambia(PANA) - Banjul International Airport (BIA) will reopen by the end of October but under tight health-related regulations against the spread of the coronavirus, the Ministry for Transport, Works and Infrastructure said on Sunday.
In a report, a copy of which was made available to PANA, the ministry noted that the re-opening of BIA is important for the tourist season in The Gambia from October to April the following year.
During this period the airport handles significant traffic in terms of passengers, cargo, and aircraft movements.
According to the report, in the event that the airport is re-opened, preventive and mitigation measures must be in place such as quarantine, in order to enhance safe and efficient operations of air transport and crew.
All travellers (arriving or departing) are required to have negative PCR COVID-19 test certificate conducted within 72 hours prior to arrival or departure.
The report, among other measures, states that airlines shall not transport any passenger to the BIA who does not present a COVID-19 test certificate.
It emphasises that all airport workers must have their temperature checked before and after work, in accordance with ECOWAS Guidelines. Thermal imaging cameras will be set up at the main entrances used by airport workers to monitor their temperatures; and Government will support the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) including face masks.
-0- PANA MSS/AR 20Sept2020
