Tate Papworth
The deepening COVID-19 crisis continues to batter Melbourne Airport.
Earlier this year the airport revealed its passenger numbers in March were down by 44 per cent compared to the same time last year.
It also recorded its lowest international passenger figure since June 2010 and its lowest domestic numbers since February 2004.
Internally the airport had been hoping that domestic travel would once again be possible and things would start to turn around.
But then a second wave of the virus hit and further restrictions put in place.
Last week the NSW government closed its borders to Victorians.
Other states have similar restrictions.
Melbourne Airport chief executive Lyell Strambi said it was a big blow.
“We are obviously disappointed by news of the closures of the Victoria-NSW border,” Mr Strambi said.
“Melbourne Airport, and the broader Melbourne visitor economy continues to be battered by the COVID-19 health pandemic.
“We appreciate the reasoning behind the border closure, and we will continue to do all we can to support the recovery of the community from this crisis.”
While travel seems a long way off, the airport has introduced a number of new hygiene and wellbeing improvements to support travellers
when they return to the skies.
Hand sanitiser units are now located in all terminals next to check-in kiosks, lifts, and inside gate lounges and can be found next to lifts in car parks and in taxi ranks.
Antibacterial wipes have also been placed inside baggage reclaim and next to trolley pick-up stations as well as food courts, so travellers can wipe down their luggage, trolleys and tables.
The airport has also added more physical distancing floor markings at check-in, security screening and in gate lounges.
Seating has also been spaced out to ensure passengers spend less time in close proximity to each other.
“We know Victorians want to travel and we will be ready to welcome guests back when flying is able to resume,” Mr Strambi said.
