ACI Director General - Asia-Pacific meets WHO’s Bahrain representative

Manama, Nov. 10 (BNA): Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) Chief Executive Officer Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah and Airports Council International (ACI) Director General - Asia-Pacific Stefano Baronci visited the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Bahrain Representative Dr. Tasnim Atatrah to discuss the recovery of the aviation industry amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. “The major barrier to the resumption and growth of traffic is harmonization. Until border control, visa regulations, and testing protocols are harmonized, airline networks will continue to face disruption. Passengers are also apprehensive about traveling and unsure what to expect when arriving to their destination, so it will take time for the joy of traveling to return. However, reaching a common denominator on the minimum requirements will go a long way towards helping the industry recover faster than anticipated. We remain committed to working alongside ACI and the WHO to keep the Kingdom’s aviation sector moving along safely and effectively,” Al Binfalah said. “The WHO recognizes the importance of maintaining strong capacities outlined under the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) at Points of Entry. As countries gradually resume or readjust non-essential international travel, the introduction of risk mitigation measures aimed at reducing travel-associated exportation, importation, and onward transmission of SARS-CoV-2 should be based on thorough risk assessments conducted systematically and routinely. The overall health and well-being of communities should be at the forefront of considerations when deciding on and implementing international travel-related measures, which should be communicated publicly in a timely manner,” Dr. Attatrah said. ACI represents the world’s airports and their collective interests. It promotes professional excellence in airport management and operations, and works closely with prominent aviation organizations such as the International Civil Aviation Organization and the International Air Transport Association to develop standards, policies, and recommended practices.