WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. — The holiday travel rush is in full swing and the Connecticut Airport Authority is expecting near pre-pandemic travel volumes to continue at Bradley International Airport into the new year. At the same time, health officials are also urging caution as COVID-19 cases rise across the country.
“We’re expecting nearly double the passenger volume that we saw last year. Naturally, it’s still not at the pre-pandemic levels," said Alisa Sisic, Manager of Marketing and Public Information Officer at Connecticut Airport Authority.
The big crowds mean there is plenty of joy to go around, but there’s also some concern over rising COVID-19 cases and the omicron variant.
“My grandma actually I talked to her last night and she wants to possibly do masks at the family gathering just to ensure her and my grandpa had it a little while ago so with the variant, they don’t want to get it again," said Callie Krueger, a Yale University student who traveled home to Wisconsin on Monday.
Other travelers like Fred Minkle and his wife are also taking extra precautions. They cut their trip to see their daughter in Las Vegas short because of the country's COVID-19 situation.
“We were gonna stay for Christmas but with the new variant of COVID coming around and watching the news and seeing it start spreading, probably better that we get back before we get stuck out in Vegas," said Minkle.
Travelers at Bradley have access to a COVID-19 testing site set up in the baggage claim area of the airport.
The testing site offers PCR tests with results typically back in 48 to 72 hours, sometimes even 24 hours.
Testing is available seven days per week and the hours of operation are based on Bradley's flight schedule, which may vary. Typically, testing is available from the first flight arrival through the last arrival each day. Hours may vary during major holidays.
People should contact their health insurance provider to check if the cost of testing is covered. If the cost is not covered, tests are still available for $125.
“It’s very convenient. Some places are booked up for days and weeks out," said Mark Olson of Enfield who got tested Monday morning.
Additionally, a free walk-up vaccine clinic is set up right next to the testing site. It's open on certain days through the holiday season.
Passengers at Bradley are strongly encouraged to plan ahead, especially if it has been a while since they have traveled by air. To assist in the preparation process, the airport offered the following tips:
Arrive Early - The airport will be busy, especially during the early morning departures. Passengers are advised to arrive at the airline ticket counter at least 90 minutes prior to their flight’s departure.
Confirm Your Flight - Before you come to the airport, confirm your flight with your airline and consider checking in for your flight ahead of time.
Plan for Parking - There are many parking options at the airport. Parking closest to the terminal is very popular and will be in high demand. Visit the airport’s website ahead of your arrival for the latest information on parking availability and follow directional signage at the airport to guide you to open lots.
Bring a Face Covering with You - While many establishments have loosened their face covering requirements, wearing a face-covering is required and federally mandated at airports and onboard aircraft (regardless of vaccination status).
Follow TSA Screening Guidelines - Have your credentials ready and pack properly to help speed up your screening process.
Angelo Bavaro is an anchor and reporter at FOX61 News. He can be reached at abavaro@fox61.com. Follow him on Facebook and Twitter.
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