FAI staff take tremendous pride in maintaining and providing the cleanest and safest place possible for the public. FAI is working closely with health experts from the State Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) and following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to ensure our methods and materials remain consistent with the most current for handling new developments related to the COVID-19 coronavirus.
- COVID-19 testing has been conducted inside the baggage claim area at FAI since June 5, 2020 through a collaboration with Alaska DHSS and third-party contractors, Beacon Health and Capstone Clinic. Capstone Clinic is currently offering testing to arriving passengers, outbound travelers destined to remote Alaskan communities off the road-system, and outbound travelers destined to Hawaii. Capstone Clinic is a Trusted Testing Partner for the State of Hawaii Safe Travels Program. Testing is strongly encouraged under the Alaska State Health Advisories 2 & 3. Travelers are encouraged to test within 72 hours of departure from their respective originating locations. For the most up to date travel information please see Traveler Information - COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Information (alaska.gov). For current Alaska Health Advisories can be found at Health Advisories - COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Information (alaska.gov)
- FAI has increased cleaning and sanitizing to include:
- Frequent and extra cleaning of all high-touch surfaces throughout the Terminal.
- Addition of a hospital grade electrostatic misters, Veritiv Mister, to administer hospital grade disinfectant on all high-touch surfaces.
- UVA lights have been installed into the Terminal’s HVAC system.
- Plexi-glass barriers have been installed at ticket counters and other areas where employees have contact with members of the public.
- Restrooms have been converted to touchless restrooms, including sink and toilet areas.
- Restrooms and common areas are constructed of nonporous materials allowing for effective cleaning of all surfaces.
- Large parts of the terminal receive direct sunlight through large windows helping to disinfect and improve air quality.
- Hand sanitizing stations have been installed throughout the terminal.
- FAI has modified business practices in accordance with CDC and DHSS recommendations including:
- Airport Administrative Offices remain open for business. All visitors must sign in and are required to wear a face covering.
- All FAI employees are required to wear face coverings in worksites and practice social distancing.
- The FAI Badging Office is maintaining social distancing requirements by providing services by appointment only. All visitors are required to sign in a wear a face covering.
- Plexi-glass barriers have been installed at areas where employees have contact with members of the public.
- Signage has been added throughout the airport and overhead announcements are playing to remind travelers to maintain social distancing while traveling through the airport. Prominent signage is posted in the ticketing areas, at the TSA security checkpoint, and gate areas.
- Cloth and disposable masks have been received from FEMA/FAA for distribution across FAI.
- Mask distribution stations have been installed in Gates 2, 4, and A/B areas. As of March 18, 2021, over 60k masks have been distributed airport wide to passengers, tenants, airlines, and employees to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
FAI Traveler Tips
In addition to these and other changes, FAI recommends its guests and passengers follow CDC guidelines to stay healthy, as well as the following:
- All passengers and guests should wear face coverings while at FAI. Masks are required by federal law on all airport property by all persons over the age of 2 years old. Information regarding the mask requirement may be found at Order: Wearing of face masks while on conveyances and at transportation hubs | Quarantine | CDC and Mask Mandate, About FAI, Transportation & Public Facilities, State of Alaska
- Travelers should place personal belongings in their carry-on luggage and use mobile boarding passes to limit touchpoints.
- Travelers are encouraged to wash their hands directly before and after completing the security screening process.
- Carry personal hand-sanitizing liquid containing at least 60% alcohol. TSA has increased the amount of hand sanitizer allowed to be brought through the security checkpoint to 12 ounces. Check the TSA website for more COVID-related changes.
- Prevent terminal crowding. Arrive at the airport at least two hours before departure to prevent last-minute rushing before scheduled flights.
- Be prepared. TSA security queues may look longer due to increased social distancing.
Use the Cellphone Lot, the short-term parking lot, and the curbside. If you are picking up or dropping off passengers, and your party does not require assistance, stay outside on the curb and have your party come to you. You should not enter the terminals unless you are assisting unaccompanied minors, passengers with disabilities, or others who need assistance.
Where to get more information
