Belmopan. June 25, 2020. 6:00 p.m.
Today, during a virtual press conference, the Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow announced a reopening date of August 15th, 2020 for the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA).
The reopening of the PGIA marks the third stage in Belize’s five-phase reopening strategy for tourism. In May, the Prime Minister lessened restrictions under the state of emergency, which saw the reopening of hotels for domestic tourism. Additionally, Belizean crew members were repatriated from cruise ships.
Earlier this month, the second phase commenced with a phased repatriation program led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Under the carefully-phased program, Belizean citizens — particularly those in dire situations – have been approved re-entry to the country.
Though dates have yet to be announced, phase four will see the full reopening of the overnight tourism sector, including land borders and other smaller ports, and concluding with the resumption of cruise tourism in phase five.
During the press conference, Mrs. Karen Bevans, Director of the BTB, detailed the new protocols for visitors arriving via the PGIA as well as enhanced health and safety protocols for hotels, restaurants, and tour operators. Details of the new standards can be found on the BTB’s website at www.belizetourismboard.org.
The press conference also included presentations from CEO Judith Alpuche, Chair of the National Task Force; Dr. George Gough, CEO in the Ministry of Health; Dr. Marvin Manzanero, Director of Health Services; and Mr. Michael Singh, Chief Technology Officer.
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