Arizona Coyotes to increase capacity at Gila River Arena to 50%

The Arizona Coyotes will be increasing Gila River Arena’s capacity to 50% beginning April 17, the team announced Monday.

The arena has been operating at 25% capacity – roughly 3,400 fans – since January.

Following a recent approval from the City of Glendale, as well as current NHL protocols, a maximum of 7,900 fans will be allowed for the club’s remaining home games in April and May.

All safety protocols will remain in place, including masks being mandatory outside of when eating and drinking.

“The health and safety of our fans, players, coaches and staff has been our top priority all season long and we are excited to increase our seating capacity at Gila River Arena for our remaining home games in April and May,” Coyotes president and CEO Xavier A. Gutierrez said in a press release. “Throughout this process, we have worked diligently with the City of Glendale, ASM Global, state and federal authorities, medical experts and the NHL to ensure that we have a safe environment for our fans at Gila River Arena.

“We are confident that the innovative and tech-enabled services we have in place will continue to protect the health and safety of our incredible fans. We appreciate their tremendous support and look forward to creating a great home ice advantage for our players as we fight to secure a playoff position.”

Season ticket holders will have first priority based on seniority. Seating will be in pods.

In addition to the limited seating capacity, Arizona has implemented fully digital ticketing, cashless transactions, pre-paid touchless parking and the installation of sanitizer stations throughout Gila River Arena.

Fans and arena employees will be required to wear a mask when not eating or drinking. Smoking will not be allowed outside on the patios.

The Coyotes’ last game of the season is May 8.

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