NEWS

The Premier has announced that from tomorrow, Friday, 22 January 2021, a Direction Notice will be issued making it mandatory for anyone aged 12 or older to wear a face mask on domestic flights and while at an airport. This applies to all flights to and from King Island and passengers, visitors and airport workers at the King Island Airport whether they are airside, landside in the terminal, baggage collection/handling areas or as soon as they have stepped out of a parked vehicle. The only exception is if the State Controller or the Deputy State Controller has issued a written exemption.

In the short term, Council will assist the travelling public and airport visitors by providing face masks at each of the landside entrances to the terminal and signage instructing that face masks must be worn at all times. As it is the responsibility of each individual to ensure they comply with the Direction Notice, over time it will be expected that people will provide their own face mask.

It is expected that the airlines, charter operators and general aviation pilots will take primary responsibility to ensure everyone on their flights and when airside comply with the Direction Notice. Similarly, hire car and coach businesses are expected to take responsibility to assist their customers. All businesses and government agencies will be responsible to ensure their staff and contractors wear masks when on airport property.

The Airport Manager and Airport Reporting Officers will, as part of their normal duties, generally monitor the situation. If someone is not wearing a face mask, they will be handed a mask and informed that it is a Government requirement to wear it. If a person refuses, they will be asked to leave the airport. Should a person refuse to leave the matter will be referred to Tasmania Police.

If you need any additional information or assistance, please contact us by phone on 03 6462 9000, by email at kicouncil@kingisland.tas.gov.au or contact the Airport Manager directly on ncooper@kingisland.tas.gov.au.