It is essential that Professor Van Helsing is met at the airport.

It is essential that Professor Van Helsing is met at the airport. => Professor Van Helsing..is met at the airport is essential………………..

Professor Van Helsing must be met at the airport.

This is a more concise and direct way to express the same idea as the original sentence. It also has the advantage of being more active, which can make it more engaging to read.