The pandemic has drastically changed the way people travel by air. Airlines have had to adapt to a new reality where social distancing and masks are mandatory. But with new rules constantly changing, it can be hard to keep track of the requirements from different airlines. Let’s take a look at what airlines are requiring now and if that might change in the future.
Which Airlines Don’t Require Masks?
As 2021 comes to an end, many travelers are wondering which airlines still don’t require masks in 2023. With the impact of the pandemic still being felt, there are still some airlines that are allowing customers to travel without a mask. Here’s a list of some of the airlines that don’t (or may not) require masks on flights during 2023:
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- United Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- Spirit Airlines
- JetBlue Airways
- Air France
- Lufthansa
It is important to note that some airlines may add or change this policy at anytime.
Although it is safe to assume that mask policies will slowly start to relax during 2023, it is important for those travelling to check with their airline directly. This will help you stay up-to-date on the regulations and guidelines surrounding face masks.
Please keep in mind that individual policies for masks may vary by airline, flight, and destination. Be sure to check with your airline before making travel plans as this could have an impact on your flying experience.
It is important to remember that face masks should still be worn in airports, public areas and other public transportation.. Even if you happen to board a plane where face masks are optional, you should always wear one while traveling if possible. This will ensure you remain safe and protect other passengers against potential transmission of the virus.
Are masks now required on airplanes?
The days of rushing through the airport with a face free from cloth may soon be a thing of the past. As rising cases of COVID-19 prompt governments to take more drastic measures, travelers may need to start planning ahead when it comes to packing for their next trip.
None of the major commercial airlines currently require passengers to wear masks on flights within the United States. But international flights present different rules and regulations that travelers must be aware of. For instance, countries like Australia are now requiring passengers on flights to and from their destination to wear a face mask.
The reasons behind this requirement vary. On one hand, it helps protect fellow passengers from any potential infections that would otherwise be spread through coughs and sneezes. On the other, it also acts as a sign that people are taking pandemic prevention seriously, which is an important part of curbing the virus’ spread.
If you’re planning a flight that requires you to don a face covering, make sure you pack enough masks so that you can change them out during your trip. Since many health agencies recommend changing your mask every few hours, it’s better to bring several so that you don’t end up running out and finding yourself maskless in an unfamiliar land.
Wearing a mask isn’t just about protecting yourself; it’s about protecting others too. It shows that you’re taking responsibility for your own health by doing your part in preventing the spread of disease.
To find out if your intended destination requires masks, consulting the airline’s website before booking may be wise. Each airline will have its own policies and regulations they’re required to follow while in flight:
- Do some research before flying internationally
- Bring several masks for changing out during long trips
- Find out what your destination requires regarding face masks
- Wear masks as a sign of taking responsibility for one’s own health
Did American Airlines drop the mask mandate?
American Airlines has just announced that it will no longer require passengers and staff members to wear face masks in U.S. airports or on domestic flights. This decision comes following the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) removal of the federal face mask mandate.
American Airlines is one of several airlines that have publicly supported the TSA’s decision and are implementing changes to their policy. The face mask requirement is no longer applicable for American Airlines customers and crew members in U.S. airports, onboard planes, and on domestic flights.
American Airlines has clarified that the policy change only applies to customers and team members located in the United States.
To further protect crew members and customers alike, American Airlines is still strongly encouraging everyone travelling on their flights to:
- Wash hands often
- Cover their nose and mouth when they cough or sneeze
- Observe social distancing protocols when possible
These precautionary measures will help lessen the risk of spreading contagious respiratory diseases such as COVID-19. The airline promises to continuously monitor the latest health information from industry experts, local authorities, partner airlines, and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC).
What Airlines No Longer Require Masks?
As of May 2, 2022, a handful of US airlines have decided to scrap the requirement for passengers to wear masks. For those who are wondering which airlines are leading the way in this post-pandemic era, here is a list of all the carriers that no longer require masks:
- Frontier Airlines
- Hawaiian Airlines
- Spirit Airlines
- Avelo Airlines
- Sun Country Airlines
- Breeze Airways
Although face coverings are no longer mandatory, these airlines are still highly encouraging their passengers to wear them. Frontier Airlines and Hawaiian Air have even asked their customers to continue to cover their mouth and nose while on board.
In terms of health and safety protocols, Frontier Airlines has implemented a slew of proactive measures in order to ensure the wellbeing of its passengers. These include compulsory temperature checks before boarding and enhanced cleaning of all aircrafts prior to each flight.
Similarly, Hawaiian Airlines and Spirit Airline have also introduced extensive safety precautions. They both ask customers to sanitise their hands before boarding the plane and remind everyone that masks must be worn at all times in the terminal area.
Likewise, Avelo Air has put together a comprehensive set of guidelines for on board staff and passengers. They specify that face coverings must still be worn when social distancing isn’t possible, such as during meal service.
Sun Country Access, Breeze Airways and other US airlines have also adopted similar safety protocols so that passengers feel comfortable flying with them again. So although masks are no longer mandatory, they remain an important part of keeping each other safe.
Are Airlines Still Requiring Masks in 2022?
The CDC’s January 29, 2021 Order requiring masks on public transportation conveyances and at transportation hubs is no longer in effect as of April 18, 2022. This is a result of a court order. Therefore, the CDC will not be enforcing the Order.
This includes airplanes and other forms of public transportation. Masks are no longer required to be worn in these locations starting April 18, 2022. However, while the federal government will no longer be enforcing the mask order, individual airlines may still require masks.
It is possible that many airlines may still ask passengers to wear masks while on board their planes. This may be done for safety reasons, such as reducing the risk of transmission of COVID-19. Therefore, we recommend reaching out to your chosen airline prior to travel to confirm any mask requirements.
We know this can be a confusing time for travellers. In addition to confirming any airline mask regulations before flying, there are a few tips we recommend:
- Plan ahead: Make sure to research face covering policies prior to planning or booking a flight.
- Bring back-up: Pack an extra face covering in your carry-on bags just in case you’re asked to wear one during your flight.
- Be prepared: Know what type of face coverings are accepted by your chosen airline and have them ready when you arrive at the airport.
Following these tips will help ensure that your next flight goes smoothly and keep everyone safe during travel!
Does American Airlines require a Covid Test to Fly?
Yes. In order to fly with American Airlines, you need to ensure that you’ve met all the requirements for international travel. It’s easy to provide proof on-the-go using the airline’s app or VeriFLY™. This includes documentation such as:
- Negative COVID-19 test results. Submit your negative test result which verifies that you have tested negative for COVID-19 prior to your departure.
- Vaccination records. Upload your proof of vaccination through the app or VeriFLY™ if you’ve already been vaccinated against the virus.
- Digital vaccine certificates. Provide verification of your vaccination status by submitting digital vaccine certificates which will authorize you for international travel with American Airlines.
It’s important to check and make sure you have all the required documents needed for travel before you plan your trip. With the American Airline’s app or VeriFLY™, these documents can be uploaded quickly, easily and securely. That way, when you reach the airport, there won’t be any unexpected delays caused by missing paperwork and files.
Getting ready for an international flight with American Airlines? Make sure to take a few extra minutes to submit all the necessary documents in order to make sure that your travel process is smooth and hassle-free!