JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville Aviation Authority held a news conference Tuesday to update the public about preparations for the holiday travel season.
Despite COVID-19 still being a factor in our everyday lives, the 2020 holiday travel season is still expected to be a busy one.
“Since the onset of the pandemic, we have been laser-focused on implementing the aviation industry’s best practices in response to COVID-19, and we are confident that we will still provide a safe and enjoyable journey through JAX this holiday season,” said Mark VanLoh, CEO of JAA.
Travelers should anticipate the following changes when traveling through JAX over the holidays.
Parking
Economy Lot #1 will open only on Wednesday, Nov. 25 from 6:00 A.M.-6:00 P.M for Thanksgiving travel. All vehicles parked in Economy Lot #1 must exit by November 30. In April, JAA dramatically reduced on-airport parking rates in the daily and hourly garages and the daily surface lot.
Airport officials are working to make parking easier, make arrival check-ins safer and say they will continue to provide ongoing measures to protect the health and safety of passengers when traveling through Jacksonville International Airport.
Concessions
Several restaurants in the terminal are open to accommodate the influx of travelers but with limited menus and modified hours.
Facial Coverings
Travelers are required to wear a facial covering when in the terminal, per the City of Jacksonville’s mask mandate. Masks will be provided to any traveler that may not have one available.
Other Measures
- Frequent cleaning of high-touch areas throughout the terminal
- Stand-alone and wall-mounted hand sanitizers
- Plexiglas barriers at ticketing, information desk and gates
- Reduced seating at restaurants and food courts
According to the Centers for Disease Control, if you plan to travel this holiday season you can take steps to protect yourself and others from COVID-19:
- Wear a mask to keep your nose and mouth covered when in public settings, including on public transportation and in transportation hubs such as airports and stations
- Avoid close contact by staying at least 6 feet apart from anyone who is not from your household
- Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer
- Avoid contact with anyone who is sick
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth