PITTSBURGH — The Allegheny County Airport Authority has always been dedicated to the health, safety and security of its passengers and staff. Now it’s going even further by committing to the highest in safety standards and practices in the airport industry – today and in the future.
As the Airport Authority prepares for the gradual return of air travel, it’s launching an authority-wide initiative titled “PIT Safe Travels.” The initiative, in accordance with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, boosts health and safety measures already in place throughout the facilities, and will help increase confidence in air travel though enhanced protocols that outline best practices for reducing the spread of germs.
The program includes mandating facial coverings while on airport property, practicing social distancing through guided markers in high-traffic areas, utilizing protective shields in high traffic areas, enhancing cleaning and disinfection, and implementing new touchless transaction technology, among others. The program will also apply to the Allegheny County Airport in West Mifflin.
“Public safety and security are always the top priorities. We are enhancing already rigorous protocols to ensure that our passengers and staff are protected and that our terminal is ready for business,” said Allegheny County Airport Authority CEO Christina Cassotis. “This initiative will continue to grow as we implement evolving best practices and the latest technology to benefit our passengers and staff through UV disinfection, touchless transactions and more.”
The first phase of key changes at the airport in the coming weeks include:
• Facial Coverings – All employees, passengers and visitors are required (per CDC age and medical condition guidelines) to wear face coverings on all public airport property effective Monday, May 18.
• Social Distancing – Signage and floor markings throughout the terminal will give guidance on six-foot distancing in common areas .
• Enhanced Cleaning and Disinfecting
o Frequent deep cleaning practices continue in all public spaces and restrooms, and additional hand sanitizing stations have been added.
o PIT is pioneering the use of UV light in airport public areas such as floors, moving walkways, elevators and escalator rails to reduce contaminants and provide another layer of sanitation.
• Protective Shields – Shields and barriers are being installed in high-traffic areas, including public counters, checkpoints and baggage claim.
• Reconfigured Seating – Furniture in gate areas, food court and baggage claim are being removed or repositioned to allow for social distancing.
• Touchless Transactions – PIT is evaluating touchless technology for concessions and parking transactions.
More information related to the COVID-19 response is available here.
About Allegheny County Airport Authority:
Allegheny County Airport Authority, which operates Pittsburgh International Airport and Allegheny County Airport, is committed to transforming Pittsburgh’s airports to reflect and serve the community, inspire the industry, and advance the region’s role as a world leader. Pittsburgh International Airport serves nearly 10 million passengers annually on 17 carriers. The airport was named by Fast Company magazine as One of the Most Innovative Companies in the World as well as a finalist in its World Changing Ideas awards, both in 2020. For more information, visit www.flypittsburgh.com.