Security
There have been a number of updates at the security checkpoint to reduce physical contact with TSA officers. You no longer hand your boarding pass to the officer. You can scan your own pass, and then allow the officer to visually inspect it along with your identification. It’s helpful to remove belts and all items from your pockets such as wallets, keys and phones before you enter the checkpoint and place them in your carry-on bag instead of a bin. You can also remove food items from your carry-on bag and place in a bin for screening since these items often alarm the screener, and that way the officer doesn’t have to dig through your bag. You’ll be glad to know the officers wipe the bins down after each use, and TSA now allows you to bring up to 12 ounces of hand sanitizer on your flight.
For more COVID-19 updates related to going through the security checkpoint, visit tsa.gov/coronavirus.
Concessions
Many shops and restaurants are open, but not all, and hours may vary. Those that are open are following their company policies on cleaning and sanitizing each location. This includes, but not limited to, regularly scheduled cleaning of all surfaces, increased cleaning in high-traffic areas, hand sanitizer available for customers, wearing of masks and gloves, and practicing physical distancing. Before you leave home, you can look up what is open and when at cvgairport.com/flyhealthy and click on the “Concessions” tab.
Gate area
Plexiglass guards have also been installed at gate check-in desks. Most gate areas include signage reminders and/or markers showing the proper distance travelers should allow between one another. Seats aren’t blocked to enable families to sit together, but again there are reminders to encourage social distancing and respect each other’s’ space. If a restaurant has a crowd, or you don’t have time to sit down to grab a bite to eat before your flight, you can get items to go and eat at your gate. Many concessions have increased the number of individually wrapped, prepared food.
Boarding
Many airlines are boarding from the back of the plane to the front to minimize passengers walking past one another. The friendly gate agents remind passengers again to physically distance themselves when boarding the plane.
On the plane
All airlines operating out of CVG are requiring passengers to wear masks while on board. Airlines have also enhanced their cleaning procedures, spraying down seat areas, cabin walls, overhead bins and lavatories. And, all aircraft have HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters which can capture respiratory virus particles at more than 99.9% efficiency. These are the same filters used in hospitals and doctors' offices. You may be curious about that middle seat. It varies by airline – some are leaving it open, others are not. It’s also a policy that’s being updated often. It’s best to check with your airline before you travel. To learn more about what your airline has done, you can visit cvgairport.com/flyhealthyand click on the Airline Info tab.
One final pro tip to reiterate: Make sure to research your destination before you go especially during the pandemic. You’ll want to know what restrictions there may be. For example, look at what food and entertainment are close by and what their hours are for planning purposes. You can also determine if your destination requires COVID testing, where face masks are required and any other planning you can do beforehand to ensure your trip goes smoothly and exceeds your expectations. 😊
Airports across the world are working together to share best practices and develop a seamless travel experience for you. Once you land at your destination, you may see similar updates at your destination airport. We hope you find this how-to guide helpful for when you return to the skies. If you have further questions before your next trip, you can message the airport on Twitter or Facebook or contact your airline for additional details.