BFA Covid-19 Update 2

[hotairballoonist]

BFA Covid-19 Update

Just three weeks ago, we sent a letter addressing the Covid-19 affect on ballooning and the various perspectives with so much of the country on some form of lockdown.  This whole experience has been very dynamic if you step back and look at what has happened throughout our country in just a matter of the past 2 months.

In the past 10 days, we have seen a strong move from within both the public as well as government sectors to begin opening the country back up.  There are strong opinions for those wanting to and those not wanting to, but the first step as been taken in Georgia with other states now at the beginning of May. 

What is also apparent is that each state is determining it’s own path for this transition and we expect that those paths will be just as dynamic depending on the course that the Covid-19 virus takes.  With all of that said, we would offer the following as information that should be considered within the ballooning community for us to play our part in this transition.

About two weeks ago, the White House issued the following document that began the discussions.  This is a phased approach and offers perspective as to what and how to do, in very general terms, as we move forward. https://www.whitehouse.gov/openingamerica/

Each state has been directing what has been done with all but a handful having instituted some form of “Stay at Home” policy.  Equally, the states will be determining their own path forward.  We strongly recommend that you all stay informed as to what is happening within your state.  Keep in mind some businesses may prefer to take a more conservative approach even more than is allowed under any new “opening” guidelines. Listen to how other businesses are choosing to regard those directions and then do what you believe is right for you and your area within the guidelines.

Emphasis is being placed upon the safety of employees and the public both so as to not endanger anyone unnecessarily as well as to continue to control the spread of the disease.  There are indications that outdoor activities may be less conducive for the transmission due to effects of UV and warmer temperatures as we look forward to summer’s approach.

There are still no clear and absolute answers.  You should continue to consider the following as you look to your ballooning activities:

• The CDC guidelines are still important and can be found here- https://www.coronavirus.gov

• Can you/your crew/passengers maintain proper social distancing in the course of the launch, flight, chase, and recovery?

• In the absence of social distancing, can protective measures be employed? What measures are sufficient?

• Respect landowners and the general public that might be present during launch or landing. Their safety and concerns must be considered.

• The news media is watching very closely.

• Remember, this disease can still be spread without yet showing symptoms.

As we said before, we all love our sport and our ballooning family and care deeply about all of you.  Like you, we are looking forward to returning to the flying we have all known and loved.

For the present, please carefully abide by the federal, state and local guidelines.  If/when you choose to begin flying, we suggest that you demonstrate great care and concern for crew, passengers and the general public. Remember, while you may be operating within the new guidelines, others may still view your actions as “too soon.” Please be respectful of their concerns and safety, and act as responsible ambassadors for our sport in the continuing difficult days.

 

Stay safe,

Your BFA Board of Directors

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