Stay-at-home orders, restaurant and bar closures, and beach closures, these are just some of the measures officials are taking to mitigate the effects of the coronavirus. But, what about airports?
One politician is calling on President Donald Trump to stop the spread of the coronavirus by closing Miami International Airport off to domestic and international flights coming from coronavirus hotspots.
Miami Mayor Francis Suarez (R) announced his request in a tweet.
“Today I asked President Trump to immediately suspend flights from international and domestic COVID-19 hotspots to Miami International Airport. We need to stop the spread of the virus to keep Miami residents safe,” Suarez tweeted.
Today I asked President Trump @realdonaldtrump to immediately suspend flights from international and domestic COVID-19 hotspots to Miami International Airport. We need to stop the spread of the virus to keep Miami residents safe. pic.twitter.com/XdNoHqfrSt
— Mayor Francis Suarez (@FrancisSuarez) April 3, 2020
Suarez penned a letter to Trump explaining the reason behind his request.
“We are at war with a silent, deadly, and merciless enemy. I have personally witnessed its speed, its spread, and its lethality among my residents in Miami, and now the state of Florida,” the letter reads.
The letter goes on to explain while implementing the Defense Production Act would help the industry, it is important the government directs its resources to other industries in need.
The Defense Production Act allows the government to accelerate the development of resources, such as masks and ventilators, for medical personnel, as IJR previously reported.
Suarez reiterates the need to focus on providing resources necessary to fight the coronavirus.
“I am requesting that you immediately suspend flights from international and domestic COVID-19 hotspots to Miami International Airport; and now prioritize the movement of medical supplies, food and protective personal equipment to contain COVID-19,” Suarez writes.
The letter comes shortly after Trump said he is considering putting a stop to domestic flights from coronavirus hotspots, as IJR previously reported.
New York, New Orleans and Detroit airports could be affected if that was implemented.
The letter closes with Suarez offering his administration’s help in any way he can.