During COVID-19, U.S. airlines are tightening their requirements for who must wear a face mask in the airport and on board planes. Despite continued lobbying from flight attendant and pilot unions, federal regulators have refused to implement guidelines on fliers wearing face masks on board planes and in airports. So the responsibility to tighten facial covering policies rests on individual airlines. In July, major U.S. carriers began doing just that. Several ending mask exemptions for adult passengers with underlying health issues for whom wearing a face mask might be difficult. With no federal law for wearing masks on planes or in airports, airlines are setting their own policies.
Southwest and American Airlines issued mask guidance
“Effective July 27, due to the safety risk of COVID-19 transmission by individuals not wearing a face covering. Then, Southwest will require that all customers wear a face covering or mask over their nose and mouth. And there will be no exemptions to our face covering requirement, except for children under the age of 2.” according to a company statement. “If a customer is unable to wear face mask for any reason, Southwest regrets that we will be unable to transport the individual.”
American Airlines’ updated mask requirement, which requires all customers over 2 years old to wear masks at airports and on board, goes into effect July 29. “This updated policy expands American’s face covering requirement to include all areas of the airports at which American operates. They are including Admirals Club lounges, as well as on board all American flights.
CDC’s notice during flights
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends ensuring an adequate supply of PPE is available during flights. The agency also notes that airline staff tending to a sick passenger should wear a face mask. The CDC advises using simple cloth face masks in any public setting where social distancing is difficult. The recent policies imposed by airlines and any subsequent federal rules for airports are likely to add fuel to the political fire surrounding masks. Wearing face mask has quickly become a political issue as coronavirus cases have increased in parts of the country. We can notice that more states are opening up and more people resume travel.
Texas, for instance, has seen an increase in cases recently but Gov. Greg Abbott has not required mask-wearing. None of the state’s major airports require masks for customers. Similarly, Florida has also seen an increase in cases. However, Miami International Airport only urges passengers to wear face masks. And the Jacksonville Aviation Authority stresses hand-washing and using hand sanitation stations.
