Observing a minimum distance of 1.5 meters from others is one of the best measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. ‘But how do you do that at Schiphol, where you often get on or off a plane with several people? And stand in line together or drop off or pick up your luggage?” the airport says in an explanation.
‘We have experienced over the past few days that keeping a distance can be very difficult for travelers – and to our great regret, this did not go well several times. That’s why we’re taking careful measures and asking you to join us in getting it done.’ Schiphol explains all about gloves and hand gels and how to use your luggage as a barrier.
Gloves and gels
‘First of all, the health and safety of everyone at Schiphol – from travelers to employees – is very dear to us. Therefore, we keep a distance of 1.5 meters where possible. But right now, our concern for safety is challenged by health measures. Because in our security process we have to search people or search bags, where we can keep less distance. This also asks a lot of our security guards. It’s great that even in this day and age they are ensuring the safety of all those people who want to go home. For you and for our security staff, we take extra hygiene measures: our security staff wear gloves and use disinfectant gels. Also, the security filters, including the bins for hand luggage, are given extra cleaning on a very regular basis. Furthermore, in the security area there are stripes on the ground to keep 1.5 meters distance and we do not deploy security lanes close to each other.’
Your baggage as a barrier
‘As in the whole of the Netherlands, we also ask not to stand close to each other and to keep 1.5 meters distance. We call this out regularly and it is also indicated on the screens next to the flight information. At the ticket counters, check-in counters, transfer counters and arrival points, tape or separation ribbon indicates what 1.5 meters is, so you can take this into account. Plastic protective material has now been hung up at KLM check-in counters to prevent direct contact. Also, buses to and from the departure and arrival halls will run more frequently. And you will see only one trooper per booth at passport control. Are you standing in a line and finding it difficult to keep your distance? Use your luggage as a barrier. Put your suitcase well in front of you to keep space free.’
Keep your distance at the baggage carousel
‘Speaking of luggage, over the past few days, distance keeping went wrong a few times especially at the luggage belts. This was because a lot of luggage was put on the same belt. And that’s what we’re balking at! We have since taken measures together with partners: each flight will have a separate baggage carousel so that you can keep enough distance when picking up your luggage. Customs has also expanded the number of locations where they intensively check so-called 100% check flights. This also allows these flights to be handled on separate baggage belts. Are you still on the plane with your luggage or ready to board? Then the crew asks you to get in or out more staggered.
We do our best to help remind you of the 1.5 meter distance everywhere we can. Where necessary, you can be called to account for this by employees of Schiphol, security and the military police.’
