For informational purposes only. Information was correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. Please consult official government resources for additional information and guidance.
In between Hollywood dramas and the latest dance trends, something major happened in the world of travel this week: many airlines and other travel providers, like Amtrak and Uber, are no longer requiring masks on flights. With this news, we’re sure travelers have some questions – so we found answers.
What changed?
The federal mandate requiring masks on all public forms of transportation is no longer enforced by federal authorities like the TSA (for the time being), but the CDC still strongly recommends wearing a mask while traveling. The decision to require masking is currently left up to individual airlines as well as state and local transportation authorities. It also means it’s now up to individual travelers to decide whether or not they continue to mask up, when no other requirements are in place.
What’s the tea on the change?
Last week, the government announced they’d be extending the federal mask mandate to May 3rd (requiring masks to be worn aboard flights, trains, buses and other public modes of transportation). Then this week, a federal judge officially overruled the order. Within hours (minutes, really) of the ruling, most major US airlines issued statements confirming that masks would no longer be required onboard.
Who’s saying “masks off”?
Most major airlines. Shortly after the decision, players like Delta, United, American and Southwest all issued statements that masks are no longer required on board.
What does this mean for airports?
For most of the US, TSA will not be enforcing masks so it’s entirely up to you. But since the decision is up to the state and local authorities, major hubs like LaGuardia and JFK in NYC announced they still require masking, per the Port Authority.
What does this mean for domestic flights?
You are no longer required to wear a mask on flights in and around the US. Most airlines are also noting that employees are no longer required to wear masks.
How about international flights?
If you are departing the US to a destination that requires masks when flying, you’ll still need to mask up. It’s important to note that airlines are allowed to set their own rules, including whether or not masks are required on board. So check with your carrier before you travel to know whether or not the mask needs to go on once you take flight.
Do I have to wear a mask when I land in my destination?
That will depend – countries, states and even cities, may set their own mask requirements. Consult a guide like our Travel Restrictions Map* and check guidance from local authorities in your destination.
What about other forms of transportation?
Amtrak, Uber and Lyft have all said they won’t require riders and drivers to wear masks, but groups like the MTA are requiring masks still.
This is confusing.
You got that right. Here’s a list from CNN regarding which cities are changing their requirements. We recommend you keep packing your mask.
Note: Returning to the US, you still need to present a negative COVID test.
For US travelers coming back from international destinations, this new ruling does not impact the requirement that you will need to provide a negative COVID test taken within 24 hours of your flight, prior to arrival in the US.
*We check for travel restriction information from government authorities daily, and update the page any time we get new information. The information provided regarding travel restrictions for each country is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. If you’re looking for personalized travel advice for your own travel plans like whether or not a restriction applies to your trip, we won’t be able to answer any questions or offer advice. Please consult your local government’s resources.
