HAMILTON, BERMUDA — Bermuda is set to resume international commercial air service for visitors starting July 1, becoming the latest Caribbean destination to announce reopening plans in the midst of COVID-19.
According to government officials, Bermuda has the world’s 12th highest rate of testing per capita, has seen 11 consecutive days of no new cases of COVID-19 (as of June 11), and only five current active cases, none of which are critical.
All this has given the destination the confidence to welcome back airlines and visitors, says Bermuda’s Minister of Tourism & Transport, Zane DeSilva.
The resumption of cruise traffic is unknown at this time. The Bermuda Tourism Authority encourages visitors to work with travel agents to book hotel and air packages for now.
The July 1 resumption of air travel marks the island’s fourth phase in its reopening plan, which features five stages of visitors travelling to and from the destination. These include: pre-departure; in-flight; upon arrival; on-island; and returning home.
Government officials are now working to finalize a policy that will enable travellers who test negative 72 hours in advance, and who also test negative upon arrival in Bermuda to have freedom of movement to enjoy the island’s offerings while adhering to local health guidelines.
“The Bermuda government’s plan is rigourous, protecting the health of our community while allowing visitors to experience our island safely and responsibly when they are ready to travel,” says Glenn Jones, Interim CEO of the Bermuda Tourism Authority. “Now more than ever, we believe travellers will value our genuine hospitality, pristine beaches and open spaces – all accessible by a two-hour, nonstop flight from several East Coast North American getaways.”
The following health and safety protocols have been implemented for travellers:
PRE-DEPARTURE (prior to departing for Bermuda)
- Obtain a certified negative PCR COVID-19 test within 72 hours of departure
- Ensure they have appropriate health insurance
- Wear face masks when travelling to the departure airport
- Wear face masks and practice physical distancing at the departure airport
- Complete a traveller screening form and arrival card
IN-FLIGHT
- Wear a face mask while on the plane
- Practice social distancing to the extent possible
UPON ARRIVAL
- Continue to war face masks and practice physical distancing
DEPARTURE
- The same requirements when arriving in Bermuda apply to departure
- Pre-boarding health screening in the form of a temperature check will be conducted if the destination jurisdiction requires it
For more information go to https://www.gotobermuda.com/bta/press-release/bermuda-tourism-authority-update.
