Manager: Columbia airport travelers following COVID-19 precautions

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Columbia/Boone County Health Department is advising travelers to follow COVID-19 safety guidelines.

The health department's guidance recommends people travel during off-peak times, wash hands, socially distance and wear a mask no matter where or how they are traveling.

The health department also wants people to understand using commercial and public transportation, including air travel and buses, increases the risk of exposure to the novel coronavirus.

Columbia Regional Airport manager Mike Parks said Wednesday that passengers traveling for Thanksgiving have been following safety guidelines.

"I have seen passengers flying out early this morning following CDC guidance along with city and county guidance," he said.

A passenger at COU, Toby Nwizu, said every time he has traveled since the pandemic began planes have been crowded and not socially distant, however, masks have been required.

"I wasn't that surprised because it's a really small plane it would be really hard for them to social distance and it is a small airport but I have gone on other flights like Chicago and other places and it has been packed, every time I travel it has been packed, every single seat taken," he said.

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration and the Jefferson City Police Department are also warning people to travel safely this holiday.

JCPD Lt. David Williams sent out a press release explaining the dangers of driving around the holiday and the increase in car crashes seen during that time.

"During this kickoff to the holiday season, it’s more important than ever to stress the importance of seat belt safety," the press release said.