Mbalula confident airports are Covid-19 ready

TRANSPORT Minister Fikile Mbalula has expressed confidence that the aviation industry and the country’s airports will adhere to Covid-19 regulations and directives, as the sector reopens.

The Minister made the declaration on Wednesday saying government understood the need for a balanced gradual reopening of the economy and safety and good health.

“These regulations and directives are there for the protection of all people and we expect absolute compliance. I am confident that our airports will play a central role in reigniting the economy, reconnecting our economic hubs, while strictly operating under these conditions.”

“I am satisfied that the airport has started out well and we expect this to continue. Now that we have started with opening up aviation, we must look ahead with determination in order for the transport sector to perform its vital economic role,” said Mbalula.

Read also: Level 3 and what it means for airports and passengers

On Saturday, the Minister outlined regulations at which airlines would resume operations under lockdown level 3.

At this level, only passengers are allowed inside the terminal buildings.

Temperature screening will become a norm at terminal building entrances before any passenger is allowed entry. Passengers without facemasks will not be given access to terminal buildings, Mbalula said.

The Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA) is expected to ensure effectiveness of the sanitisation process before entering the terminal buildings, which may result in the number of entrances being reduced.

“All the airports will have markings on the floor for social distancing of 1.5 metres. This will be applicable at check-in counters, security checkpoints and airport lounges,” the Minister said.

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