Leading toward Recovery
Not only did we take quick and decisive action from the onset of the pandemic, we also continue to demonstrate leadership to pave the way to recovery. Here are a few ways we were immediately proactive, and how we are leading by example to respond, adjust and emerge stronger.
1.
Health, safety and security – always paramount
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we were immediately proactive. We coordinated closely with the Orange County Health Care Agency, Orange County Fire Authority and the CDC to keep abreast of the latest developments and implement airport-wide policies. The Airport also activated the JWA Emergency Operations Center to coordinate with all Airport stakeholders to begin implementing numerous operational, safety, communications, and cleaning protocols.
2.
Caring for our community
We increased deep cleaning and disinfecting, installed plastic barriers, set up hand sanitizer dispensers, and promoted healthy practices by providing free masks.
3.
Right-sizing for fewer travelers
To adjust to travel restrictions, we suspended Valet parking, reduced parking staff, ceased Main Street public parking shuttle service, placed temporary walls closing off gates in Terminal A and Terminal C and closed extra TSA screening checkpoints. We also collaborated with the Sheriff’s Department to reduce Airport Police staffing costs.
4.
Committed to satisfying guests, but within healthy limits
We reduced restaurant hours, reconfigured seating areas, and temporarily suspended guest experience programs.
5.
Temporary suspension of “extras”
During the height of Orange County’s initial lockdown, we temporarily suspended the JWA Ambassador Program, Airport Tours, AirPAWS Therapy Dog Program, and JWAlive music program.
6.
Ramped-up communications
To help guests navigate our facilities safely, we developed and implemented the “Healthy Travels” communications program, including physical distancing signage in the Terminal, two videos, a newsletter, social media, Terminal announcements, and information on the JWA website.
7.
COVID-19 County EOC response
In March, we assigned a Public Information Officer (PIO) and a JWA representative to the Orange County Operational Area (OCOA) Emergency Operations Center (EOC). These two representatives worked at the OCOA EOC remotely for several weeks beginning March 13 to support the OCOA COVID-19 response.