Overall, normal passenger levels reach about 7,500 per day, he said.
Now, levels are increasing.
“Three thousand for us was a good day,” he said, referring to levels of just a few weeks ago. “Now we’re averaging about 4,500 and some peaks of 5,000. As summer approaches, I think you’ll see that go higher and higher and higher.”
Great Lakes Helicopters of Cambridge, Ont., offers a way Canadians can cross a border closed to vehicles, while also providing a way to enjoy their own car all winter in Florida.
Returning passengers also signal returning to pre-Covid-19 protocols, Johnson said, suggesting arrival at least 90 minutes before takeoff as airports become more crowded.
Regular airport crowds also prompt the need for basic reminders about bans on knives, brass knuckles, mace, and yes – handguns. Eight were confiscated last year at the Buffalo airport, he said.
“Don’t bring that stuff to the airport,” Johnson said. “It’s not a good idea.”
He also stressed that while some private businesses and public venues are relaxing mask standards, wearing a mask inside airports and aboard planes remains mandatory per Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations – at least until a review slated for Sept. 13.
“We’re still in a Covid-19 environment,” Johnson said, tugging at his mask. “I’d love to take off this mask, but I can’t.”
