Coronavirus travel

Covid-19 cases not deterring local travel plans

Mar 3, 2020 | 4:50 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – It’s business as usual.

Amidst the announcement of the 34th case of Covid-19 in Canada, a local travel agent and the Prince George Airport are stating that people’s desire to travel doesn’t appear to be taking a hit.

Instead, owner and manager of CWT Vacations in Prince George, Karren Moore says that travellers are inquiring about travellers insurance in response to the spread of the virus.

“As long as there’s not a travel advisory warning to not travel to a certain area if you get your insurance before that advisory happens then you’re covered,” said Moore. “A lot of people are calling and booking insurances. A lot of the airlines are waiving cancellation and change fees for people who are wanting to postpone their vacations.”

She believes the travel industry is doing what they can to reassure people that they can still travel while also giving travellers their peace of mind.

She further states that due to the higher population in Vancouver, the concern is heightened whereas here in Prince George, people travelling through the airport system is usually only staying for a brief layover.

Meanwhile, at Prince George Airport, CEO Gordon Duke states that not a lot has changed as the virus remains to have no impact on northern travel.

“In terms of airport operations, we have not seen a big change. For the travelling public, it’s business a usual. Behind the scenes, our operations are looking at various things in making sure we have enough antibacterial soap on hand, that all the dispensers are working and increasing signage – just making sure that the travelling public is feeling good and safe in being here.”

In the event that a case was to present itself to the Northern Health Authority, Gordon says that they have completed a review of their quarantine and pandemic plans, but also insists that if people are concerned while travelling to just do their due diligence in ensuring their own safety.

The BC Centre of Disease Control insists the risk of the virus spreading to B.C. communities remains low at this time.