Austrian Tourism Minister, Elisabeth Koestinger on Monday said the country will open its skiing slopes in the upcoming winter season, but with certain restrictions still in place.
The minister said the cable car operators may only admit people who can provide proof that they have been vaccinated or tested against the coronavirus, or recovered from it.
She said social distancing and capacity caps will not be in place for ski lifts, as passengers will be required to wear an FFP2 face mask.
“I am convinced that with these framework conditions a carefree, safe winter season will be possible in our country,’’ she said.
Koestinger said if the number of coronavirus patients in intensive care units increases, the rules will be tightened.
Currently some 200 Covid-19 patients are being treated in intensive care units in Austria.
Health Minister, Wolfgang Mueckstein said once the number increases to 300, unvaccinated people will be banned from visiting apres-ski establishments.
“As soon as the number of intensive care patients reaches 400, the unvaccinated will have to present a negative PCR test result for access to cable cars, restaurants and hotels.’’
He said rapid antigen tests will no longer be accepted.
