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A federal government advisory to curtail unnecessary air travel has resulted in a 90 per cent drop in passenger traffic through Thunder Bay International Airport.
The airport authority said in a news release that only a limited number of flights are operating through the northwestern Ontario hub as passenger volume is at only 10 per cent of normal activity through the terminal.
Those picking up and dropping off air travellers are being urged to stay out of the building.
Travellers inside the terminal are being asked to keep a two-metre spacing from others.
Some services are being suspended, including all food outlets - except for vending machines - and escalators, in order to reduce transfer points and provide for more intensive cleaning in open public areas.
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All airport employees are required to follow a strict hand-washing regime and wear personal protective gear where necessary as cleaning and sanitation efforts are being stepped up throughout the airport and terminal building.
To date, the airport authority reports one employee has stayed home due to travel aboard.
Those arriving in Canada from abroad are required to self-isolate for 14 days and should there be any symptoms such as cough, fever or difficulty breathing, report those symptoms to the Thunder Bay Health Authority.
"As we navigate this ever-changing situation, Thunder Bay International Airport Authority is working tirelessly to help keep our passengers and colleagues safe," said president-CEO Ed Schmidtke in a March 24 statement.
"We remain committed to adjusting our health and safety procedures as required in the coming days and weeks. Our collective efforts will help to slow the introduction and spread of COVID-19 in Thunder Bay."
Travellers looking for flight information are asked to contact their airline directly.
