Measures implemented to stem the spread of COVID-19 at Guyana’s two international airports have proven to be successful as there have been no negative reports since the reopening of the airports, Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Lt. Col. Egbert Field says.
Speaking to Stabroek News last week, Field explained that the safety measures in place are working as passengers and employees are following the guidelines in place.
He noted that the move to reopen the airspace was much needed to revive the aviation industry and keep the economy open.
Field told this newspaper that there has been a slow increase of passengers arriving and departing from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport and the Eugene F Correia International Airport.
“This trend is likely to continue for some time because people will want to be comfortable when they travel. It will definitely take time to wind up but in a few days it should increase as Jet Blue (starts) operations here…,” Field said.
But while the measures are working, the GCAA head said that does not mean they are not monitoring the protocols in place.
“We are still vigilant on the protocols to be followed. We ensure that all measures outlined by the Ministry of Health are adhered to and we encourage passengers to wear their masks and sanitise themselves,” he pointed out.
Asked about the passenger load at which the aircraft have operated, the aviation body head said that there is no cap on the capacity for a flight. He explained that studies have shown that air filtration on aircraft prevents the spread of COVID-19. This allows airlines to operate at full capacity since the air is purified via the filtration system and droplets do not stay in the air.
Field went on to say that with airports reopened, many Guyanese can return from the diaspora and enjoy “the Guyanese Christmas.”
Over 5,000 passengers have utilised the airports since its reopening on October 12. Late last month, Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony had said that from over a 1,000 COVID-19 tests completed on persons entering Guyana since the reopening, only 11 positive cases were detected.
Anthony also mentioned that his ministry has been monitoring all incoming passengers and ensuring that persons with expired COVID-19 tests receive a second one upon entry.
According to the guidelines put in place by airport authorities and the Ministry of Health, “If the PCR test is done within 72 hours of travel, the passenger will not be required to do another PCR test on arrival. If the PCR test is done within 4-7 days of travel, the passenger will be required to do a PCR test on arrival,” Anthony had informed.
After a PCR test is performed, a passenger is allowed to leave and is mandated to isolate himself or herself for 24 hours.
The two major airports were closed to commercial flights from midnight of March 18, although special permission was granted to several airlines to operate repatriation flights in and out of Guyana and flights to transport oil company workers.
