In connection to the COVID-19 the Government of Aruba (GOA) announced a complete “Lockdown” for all international incoming passengers starting mid-night tonight (16th to the 17th), ending on the 31st of March 2020. For our American visitors it is advised to contact the airline directly for more information. The Aruba Tourism Authority (A.T.A.) estimates 5.000 to 7.000 tourists who are vacationing on the island will need to return in the upcoming days. Relief flights will be possible as long as the airline is willing to operate them.
On March 13 GOA officially confirmed the first two cases that were tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. In total 21 tests were performed. During a press conference last night the Prime Minister of Aruba, Evelyn Wever-Croes, confirmed that cargo will continue to be flown in and also medical transportation will proceed. Residents of Aruba can continue to come in, however a travel advisory shall be instituted for residents basically warning them not to travel.
The hospitality industry is already suffering the consequences of the crises and this will only increase from now on. Aruba’s main economic pillar is tourism meaning that the effects of the measure will hit hard but are necessary. The decision is to prioritize containment of the COVID-19 virus and “flatten the curve”, especially considering Aruba has a small hospital. The Prime Minister explains the necessity to take these drastic measures in order to recover faster on the long term. They emphasize for everyone to continue taking precautionary measures, including “social distancing”. And a request to employers to reduce/eliminate groupings of people and allow people to work from home, if possible.
Monday, March 9, GOA declared the COVID-19 crisis a national emergency. Flights from risk areas were restricted followed by a ban for European flights on Friday, March 13 leading up to today’s lockdown.
