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Ford Airport works to restore confidence in air travel with new safety measures

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GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Gerald R. Ford International Airport launched a campaign Monday to restore travelers’ confidence in air travel amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The airport has enhanced its sanitation protocols, installed protective guards and added more signage of best practices, according to a news release.

A “limited number” of face coverings provided by FEMA are available at the visitor information desk for ticketed passengers who do not have their own, the airport said.

Passengers and guests who are medically able to wear a face covering should do so throughout the terminal, as well as all airport personnel.

Some of the enhanced safety measures include:

- Continuous cleaning protocols to disinfect and sanitize high-traffic areas, including bathrooms, airline kiosks and TSA bins
- Hand sanitizer stations throughout the terminal
- Custom plexiglass at all interaction points, including ticket counters and the rental car facility
- Visual cues to reinforce physical distancing throughout the airport, such as floor clings, stanchion toppers, wall decals and computer monitors
- Signage placed throughout the terminal reminding guests about ways to limit the spread of COVID-19
- Offering PPE to guests in concession areas and through vending machines
- Installation of energy-efficient HVAC systems that improve indoor air quality and temperature comfort

“With less physical space to maintain and a clear focus on the guest experience, we are able to better control our cleaning procedures, train our team in best practices and offer a safe travel experience,” airport President and CEO Tory Richardson said in a news release.