WINNIPEG, Manitoba - September 29, 2020 - Winnipeg Richardson International Airport's commitment to provide a safe and clean environment has been recognized by Airports Council International through their groundbreaking Airport Health Accreditation (AHA) programme.
The AHA programme recognizes airports demonstrating professional excellence and carrying out industry best practices in prioritizing public health and safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. It evaluates every aspect of an airport's response including cleaning and disinfection methods, physical distancing initiatives, staff protection, physical layout, passenger communications and passenger facilities.
"Since the onset of the pandemic, our team has been committed to working together in a manner which ensures we are positioned to protect our community and ensure travellers, visitors and employees feel safe at the airport," said Barry Rempel, President and CEO of Winnipeg Airports Authority. "This accreditation is further assurance we're meeting the highest standards. Anyone entering the airport can have full confidence that we have their health and safety in mind."
Through the earlier launch of the YWG Clean Program, Winnipeg Richardson International Airport enhanced its cleaning routines and implemented innovative technology, such as UV-C escalator handrail sterilizers, to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Initiatives are reviewed on a weekly basis in collaboration with public health officials.
"I'm proud of the work our team continues to do to ensure our community is protected," said Rempel. "The measures we've put in place ensure we can safely support travel now and into the future. We've been responding with urgency and integrity throughout this evolving situation and will continue to do so to meet and exceed public health standards."
The AHA programme is also consistent with the recommendations and industry priorities put forward by ACI's Airport Industry Recovery Advisory Panel in June 2020. As the report recommends, the restart and recovery of the aviation sector will require a consistent and harmonized approach with clear industry standards and good practices. More airports adopting the AHA programme is a concrete step that airports can take to reaffirm their commitment to health and safety.
About Winnipeg Airports Authority Inc.
Winnipeg Airports Authority serves the community by leading transportation innovation and growth. As a non-share capital corporation, all net revenue is reinvested back into delivering on our mission of providing excellent airport services and facilities in a fiscally prudent manner. WAA does this through a group of companies working together toward a common vision. Airport operations support over 18,500 jobs in the community and generate $4.3 billion in economic impact.
WAA is proud to be recognized as one of Manitoba's Top Employers for 2020, the ninth year in a row.
For more information:
Tyler MacAfee, Vice President, Communications and Government Relations
Winnipeg Airports Authority Inc.
Media Line: 204-992-2791
