Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport

What is CHO doing in response to the news about swine flu?

First of all, the recently released CDC alert notice is being posted in visible places throughout the Airport.  We desire that the traveling public be as informed as possible about this virus and how to prevent its spread.

Secondly we are placing gloves and masks at workstations to allow employees the opportunity to reduce their risk of exposure.  After all, over 1200 persons travel through our facility on any given day.   At this point, no employer has taken the step of requiring the use of safety gear, but if the risk of exposure grows, that is likely to change.  Gloves are already in frequent use-custodial staff and screeners wear them as a precaution to reduce their risk of being exposed to contagions.  Hand sanitizer is also being placed at ticket counters and lift stations throughout the terminal building. 

Finally, we are undertaking additional preparatory planning by designating a quarantine area where an exposed person can comfortably wait for medical attention.

This summarizes CHO's preparation and action as part of the nationwide effort to minimize exposure to the swine flu virus.  Additional steps may be considered as new information is received from the Centers for Disease Control.

CDC Traveler's Health Alert Notice in English

CDC Traveler's Health Alert Notice in Spanish

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Information Regarding Swine Flu Virus

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Travel Precautions and Update on Affected Areas

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Information for people experiencing symptoms or who have traveled to an affected area

It's not always the big dogs who win.  The Delta Airlines station serving Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport was recently recognized for its "Outstanding Performance During February 2009".  And if that was not enough, their annual station performance rating from Comair, Inc. was an EE-exceeds expectations.  Why should you care?  Because, these folks are tireless in their efforts to promote good customer service AND good will at CHO, despite all of their cutbacks, salary reductions, loss of benefits, etc.  I have witnessed them helping passengers on after hours diverted flights, assisting a confused passenger, rushing someone and their bags to a flight because the passenger was late, negotiating with a neighbor airline to get someone on a flight because their flight cancelled.....always with a smile.  CHO has a special parking reward program for the tenant employee of the quarter.  Suffering from too many nominations right now-what a GREAT dilemma, but suffice it to say, Delta employees are at the top when counting the organization with the most winning nominees.

Next time you fly Delta from CHO, let them know you appreciate them.