Rehearsal for “Phuket Model”
After Thailand faced a spike in COVID-19 infections, it is now unclear whether the government’s plan for Phuket to reopen to foreign tourists, known as the “Phuket Model”, will go on.
However, the resort island’s international airport still continues to prepare for an eventual launch of the project that will bring back vacationers from around the world.
Expansive procedure
According to The Nation Thailand, Phuket International Airport’s exercise starts from the screening process upon arrival, filing necessary documents, to delivering the tourists to the designated facilities for their mandatory quarantines.
Thanee Chuangchoo, the airport’s general manager, said they want to be ready if the government decides to greenlight the Phuket Model programme.
He also revealed that the rehearsal was held in collaboration with other agencies including the Immigration Bureau, Customs, and Tourist Police, so that all parties involved are well-prepared.
Similar to Suvarnabhumi
Image credit: Bangkok Post
In addition, the airport’s general manager said that their safety procedure will be similar to how Suvarnabhumi Airport has been dealing with Thai returnees and foreign expats who are allowed into the kingdom.
Dr Darunee Budin, Phuket Airport’s medical director, assures that if anyone is found to have a high temperature, they’ll be isolated and closely monitored. And if tested positive, then they’ll be rushed to a hospital immediately.
Kudos for the Phuket airport for staying active!
Featured image adapted from: www.cgtn.com
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