As more travelers take to the skies this summer, Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) announced important travel information on June 25 to share with the public as passenger traffic gradually returns to the Airport.

There are special procedures in place to ensure passenger health and safety at MKE. To limit the amount of people in each area, and to provide for the safest experience possible, passengers are asked to do the following:

Always wear a face covering while in the airport and onboard the aircraft.

  • Remain six feet away from other people to the greatest extent possible.
  • Avoid congregating around the baggage claim carousels.
  • Check-in for your flight from home or from your mobile device.
  • Remain in your vehicle if dropping off or picking up a passenger. Hourly Parking is free for the first 30 minutes, or you can use our Cell Phone Waiting Area.

TSA has implemented changes to the security screening process to limit physical contact and increase distancing. All TSA officers at checkpoints are wearing masks and gloves, and frequent cleaning and disinfecting is being performed in the screening area. TSA is allowing each passenger to bring up to 12 ounces of liquid hand sanitizer in carry-on bags.

Many of the Airport’s restaurants and retail shops are closed due to low passenger volume. Restaurant and retail shops are beginning to re-open. Please follow posted guidelines in these locations. Food and beverage options onboard airlines may be limited.

“We are honored that travelers place their trust in MKE during these times. Our commitment is to keep you safe – from the moment you step inside the terminal until the moment you take off for your destination,” said Airport Director Brian Dranzik. “I commend our custodial staff for maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness. Our team is working hard to ensure a safe and positive experience for travelers. This commitment, coupled with our low fares and great destinations, has us ready and excited to welcome travelers back to MKE when they are ready to travel.”

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, MKE has enhanced its already robust cleaning procedures:

  • Restrooms are disinfected and cleaned three to five times per day, with more deep cleaning disinfection every night.
  • Water fountains are cleaned and sanitized daily.
  • Hand sanitizers are available and replenished as needed.
  • Cleaning schedules have been optimized for peak flight schedules.
  • All terminal and gate areas are disinfected with a high-grade airborne sanitizing spray every night.
  • All airlines have implemented deep cleanings of aircraft between every flight.
  • Carpet is being vacuumed with HEPA filters every night. Hard surface floors are being swept and cleaned nightly.
  • All restroom fixtures, including soap dispensers and paper towel dispensers, remain touchless.

The Airport continues to follow the health and safety protocols for COVID-19 established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Milwaukee County Health Department. The Airport will continue to monitor and update its cleaning and disinfecting protocols as needed.

Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport currently offers nonstop flights to 35 destinations coast-to-coast, and more than 200 international destinations are available from Milwaukee with just one connection. MKE is served by Air Canada, Alaska, American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, and United. MKE is owned by Milwaukee County and operated by the Department of Transportation – Airport Division, under the policy direction of the Milwaukee County Executive and the County Board of Supervisors.

The Airport is entirely funded by user fees. No property tax dollars are used for the Airport’s capital improvements or for its day-to-day operation.

The Milwaukee Independent began reporting on what was then referred to as the mysterious “Wuhan Virus” in January 2020. Other local media did not picked-up on the story until many weeks later. Our early features focused on the economic impact, social issues, and health concerns long before other Milwaukee news organizations even mentioned the coronavirus. Over the following year, we have published hundreds of articles about the pandemic and how it has affected the lives of Milwaukee residents. This extensive body of work can be found on our COVID-19 Special Report page, a chronological index of links by month. Our editorial voice remains dedicated to informing the public about this health crisis for as long as it persists.
For medical resources, please visit the CDC’s COVID-19 page or the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. All editorial content published by Milwaukee Independent can be found at mkeind.com/COVID19. With a mission of transformative journalism, our staff is free from commercial bias and are not influenced by corporate interests, political affiliations, or a public preferences that rewards clicks with revenue. As an influential publication that provides Milwaukee with quality journalism, our award-winning photojournalism and features have helped to achieve a range of positive social impact that enriches our community. Please join our effort by entrusting us with your contribution. Your Support Matters - Donate Now