Some Coloradans travel for holidays despite health officials’ recommendations
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) - While airport traffic has been low, some people have opted to visit loved ones this holiday season despite health officials' recommendations.
Dana Shield, a Spokesperson for the Colorado Springs Airport, told KRDO travel there is down around 50%, and the week of Thanksgiving was no exception.
"The aviation industry hasn't been immune to the downturn of service," Shield said.
The Colorado Springs airport was a ghost town Friday afternoon, but the few people we did see were traveling to visit family.
"We get to go see our daughter and soon to be son-in-law," said Steve Glaeser, who just got home from his visit to Texas.
"I don't get to see them as often as I would want to, so any opportunity that presents itself I mean I'm gonna come," explained Giovanni Martinez, who's visiting Colorado Springs from Texas.
The state health department is advising against traveling during the holidays, unless it's essential, to try and prevent the spread of COVID-19.
But people who hopped on a flight to see loved ones this past week say they think they'll be fine.
"Ya the Governor is mistaken and it's very safe to fly," Glaeser argued.
"I mean honestly I'm not too worried about it. I feel like as long as you take your precautions I think you'll be okay," Martinez said.
COVID-19 spreads mainly by particles through coughing and sneezing.
Shield told us the airport is still sanitizing periodically, and enforcing social distancing and mask-wearing.
She said regardless of what the health department suggests, they're open for service whether it's essential or not.
"The people that are traveling, that don't necessarily need to travel, that is their choice, and the airport is there if they have those travel needs," Shield explained.
Airport officials also pointed out -- while Denver International Airport business is also down a similar percentage -- they're seeing a much lower number of people walk through the doors in Colorado Springs.
