APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – COVID-19 hit many businesses hard, including airlines.
Now, traffic is starting to pick-up again with more people traveling.
Appleton International Airport director Abe Weber tells FOX 11 he’s planning to see more jets taking off this summer.
“We have been seeing an increasing number of traffic over the last month in May, especially the first couple days in June.”
Nearly 68,000 passengers came through the airport in April 2019, compared to roughly 3,000 this April. May travel was still down significantly from about 65,000 last year, but did rise to more than 10,000 people.
“We see families getting out, we see tradespeople going to essential business,” said Weber. “I think there’s a good mixture of people getting out for a leisure vacation but also, certainly, some essential business travelers.”
Airport officials believe people are feeling comfortable enough to travel again.
That doesn’t mean planes will be packed.
One of United Airline’s planes can seat 50 people. In order to accommodate social distancing, once it reaches 35, the airline will send another aircraft. That’s had to happen a few times at the Appleton airport.
All four airlines at Appleton International Airport are adding more flights.
Airport officials say the strongest gains are with American Airlines. It’ll fly about 90% of its pre-COVID-19 schedule, starting July 7.
“This is perfect timing for the air carriers to add these flights,” Weber said. “It’s good news for us and the businesses surrounding the airport, and the economic impact we can provide to the local community.”
ATW says Allegiant Air’s flights are the most popular with travelers.
“Whether it’s the beaches in Florida you wanna go, or out west to Phoenix, Las Vegas,” said Weber. “Nashville – our flight is starting to fly again, so it’s just really great opportunities for families, or people to get out and escape a little bit.”
And as travelers return to Appleton, they’ll come back to a fresh look.
Hand sanitizing dispensers can be seen throughout the airport, social distancing measures are in place and passengers can also expect touchless interactions.
