‘Significantly reduced’ operations continue at University Park Airport during COVID-19 pandemic
Despite a 95% decline in passenger traffic, University Park Airport is still operating, but at a “significantly reduced level,” the airport terminal executive director said.
With a steep decline in travel worldwide due to the coronavirus pandemic, the airport — located in Benner Township — saw a 32% decrease in overall aircraft operations — takeoffs and landings — in April compared to 2019, Airport Terminal Executive Director Bryan Rodgers said.
American, Delta and United airlines are arriving at and departing from the airport at a reduced level, and Allegiant still has flights to and from locations in Florida.
But as stay-at-home orders and travel restrictions are lifted, Airport Authority Executive Director James Meyer said University Park is taking steps to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 among travelers when more flights are scheduled to take off and fly into Centre County.
“Masks were required before the yellow phase and still are for the terminal,” Meyer said. “Most airlines, if not all, are requiring passengers to wear masks or a face covering while traveling.”
Airports are instructed to adhere to social distancing guidelines and disinfect planes and flight facilities on a regular basis, according to guidelines outlined by the Transportation Security Administration.
If travel is necessary, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends travelers avoid contact with sick people, refrain from touching their eyes, nose or mouth, and wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Those returning home after traveling are asked to stay home, monitor their health and practice social distancing for at least 14 days.
Last month, United States Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao announced that University Park Airport will receive $2.3 million from the the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act to support operations and replace lost revenue.
This story was originally published May 13, 2020 at 9:37 AM.
