Airlines are again taking off from Wichita Mid-Continent Airport, but it is expected to be several days before normal flight schedules are resumed by all airlines. Passengers who were diverted to Wichita and grounded since Tuesday as a result of the attacks on America are being given priority.
Wichita Mid-Continent Airport has implemented new security measures as ordered by the Federal Aviation Administration and has been certified for operation by FAA inspectors.
Each individual airline and each individual airplane must also meet the new security procedures and be inspected before being allowed to take off. In addition, airplanes will not be allowed to take-off from Mid-Continent Airport if the airport the plane is heading to has not yet been cleared by FAA inspectors.
Individual airlines will decide when they resume their regular operations. Airline officials say given the backlog of flights and new security measures, it may be two or three days before flight schedules return to normal.
All travelers in Wichita are urged to stay away from Wichita Mid-Continent Airport until they have official information from the airline they are traveling on that their flight will in fact be taking off.
Travelers should also plan to arrive at the airport two hours before their scheduled flight and be prepared to undergo stricter check-in and baggage inspection measures.