WILLEMSTAD - Nothing is more important than safety. As concerns continue about the coronavirus, Curaçao Airport Partners (CAP), as the operating company of our international airport, has established precautionary measures, recommended by the Curaçao Health Authority, to ensure the safety of all passengers and employees and ensure coordination between all parties that are responsible for the safety at the airport. An effective response also requires the active participation of a well-informed public.
The current novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, which began in December 2019, presents a significant challenge for the entire world. To ensure CAP is well prepared on the situation, we have been working closely together with the Epidemiology & Social Science Department of Curaçao. The dedicated multi-disciplinary team, a well-trained team composed by Airport Operations, Aviation Security and Hato Fire Department, have discussed all precaution measures and other actions that should be taken by the airport. Based on information and recommendations received by the governmental entity, we have agreed on a series of actions to intensify the safety measures with the goal to prevent the spread of the virus.
These measures, undertaken to increase awareness of the situation, include the availability of digital information with precautionary measures on Flight Information Display System (FIDS) in the check-in and departure hall. Posters containing coughing and hygiene information are being installed in all bathrooms, at the info desk counter, in the VIP lounge, at the Jet Centre, on the tax counter and the Badge Center. This information has been supplied by Local Public Health Authorities.
Also, hand sanitizers dispensers are being installed at strategic points for passengers and employees. Information sessions and updates are being provided to all CAP employees and stakeholders present at the airport regarding this virus and the precaution measures that should be taken at all times during this situation.
Preventing the spread of an outbreak requires a massive global effort, but there are steps everyone can take. Those include avoiding contact with sick people; not touching your eyes, mouth and nose with unwashed hands; staying home when you’re sick; and covering your sneeze or cough with a tissue that you then throw out immediately.
It’s important to mention that health precautions are also being implemented with suspected cases. The Airport Operations Department, according to our preparedness plan approved by the Curaçao Health Authority, distributes necessary personal protective equipment (masks and medical gloves) to the staff that will handle directly with the suspected passenger (s), who will be escorted via the airside to a quarantine area for suspected passengers with COVID-19 with designated vehicle, while limiting contact with other people as much as possible.
The safety and security of our passengers and employees will always be our top priority. Our multi-disciplinary team will continue to receive training, including conducting simulated emergencies specifically related to the current situation
