Pittsburgh airport launches 2nd phase of reopening plan as travel increases
Share this post:
Pittsburgh International Airport said it is launching the second phase of its PIT Safe Travels Program as passenger traffic increases.
The airport implemented the program last month to ensure a safe environment in the airport and bolster confidence in air travel in the wake of the covid-19 pandemic. The initiative includes safety protocols like mandatory face coverings, social distancing markers and UV cleaning robots.
Now, airport officials say they’re preparing to reopen more services, using a phased approach based on passenger volume.
“With the gradual increase of passenger traffic, we’re working closely with our tenants and partners to identify areas of the terminal that make sense to reopen as travel demand grows,” said Allegheny County Airport Authority CEO Christina Cassotis. “Public safety and customer service remain our top priorities, and we will continue to implement best practices and follow all public health guidelines to boost health and safety measures throughout the airport.”
The number of passengers using the airport tripled from April to May, airport officials said. On June 19, nearly 5,000 people passed through their security checkpoint, marking the highest daily total since mid-March.
To accommodate this influx of passengers — which is still down about 89% from pre-pandemic levels — the airport is transitioning to Phase 2 of their PIT Safe Travels plan.
This means a number of airport shops and restaurants will reopen in accordance with state health department guidelines and Airport Authority policies.
The airport’s long-term parking lot will reopen Thursday. Long-term and short-term parking will still be offered at a discounted rate.
The extended-term parking lot will remain closed.
The alternate security checkpoint will reopen with limited hours. This checkpoint is tentatively scheduled to be available from 4:30 to 6:30 a.m. Sundays, Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. An outdoor monitor is showing TSA wait times outside the entrance for the alternate security checkpoint.
The Global Entry Enrollment office will reopen for in-person interviews on July 7.
The second train between the Landside and Airside Terminal has been reactivated, as well as moving walkways to the long-term parking lot.
Airport officials said the airport also has installed two personal protective equipment vending machines in the Landside Terminal. Travelers can purchase masks, hand sanitizer and gloves.
Airport crews also are reconfiguring seating in high-traffic areas.