U.S. is Extending the Mask Mandate for Airplanes and More

Face mask policies have changed several times since the beginning of the pandemic.

Mask sign in Disney World

When Disney World reopened, masks were required at all times (except when eating or drinking while stationary), then they were gradually phased out. However, recently masks were reinstated as a requirement for all guests while indoors to follow along with the CDC’s current mask recommendations. Now, we have an update about mask requirements for travelers on public transportation in the U.S.

The United States will extend its mask requirements for travelers on airplanes, trains, and buses through January 18th, 2022, according to Reuters. This also includes airports and train stations.

Orlando International Airport Spring Break Crowds

This is the Transportation Security Administration’s mask directive, which is different from the CDC’s that has no expiration date. The current TSA transportation mask order runs through September 13th.

Face Mask Sign in Seattle Airport

The extension is due to the ongoing impact of the Delta variant of COVID-19, which is highly transmissible, and it also shows that transportation remains potentially risky.

Orlando International Airport

According to Reuters, the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA President Sara Nelson said the TSA mask mandate extension “will help tremendously to keep passengers and aviation workers safe.”

Orlando International Airport

The current order from the CDC has been in place since President Biden took office in January and it requires the use of face masks on almost all public transportation. This includes airplanes, ships, trains, subways, buses, taxis and ride-shares and at transportation places like airports, bus or ferry terminals, train and subway stations, and seaports.

Airplane

The mask mandate has been an issue among some travelers, particularly on planes. The Federal Aviation Administration has instituted a “zero tolerance” enforcement effort on unruly passengers. This means the FAA “will pursue legal enforcement action against any passenger who assaults, threatens, intimidates, or interferes with airline crew members” according to the agency’s website.