Face Coverings ‘No Longer Recommended’ on EU Flights

The ESA and ECDC announced on Wednesday the 11th of May that face masks and face coverings are ‘no longer recommended’ in airports or on European flights. 

According to the EU authorities, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), face masks are no longer mandatory in airports or on European flights.   

It was clarified that the wearing of face masks and face coverings will no longer be recommended and should no longer be required, however, travellers are advised to keep a mask on hand since the rules may vary from airline to airline despite this announcement. The requirements for specific destinations can be found on the Foreign Travel Advice page, but this could vary for airlines. 

This update was issued on Wednesday the 11th of May and these new rules will come into effect on Monday the 16th of May.  

It is also suggested that a face mask or face covering is “still one of the best protections” against Covid and it is still suggested that travellers should keep one on hand just in case. 

Patrick Ky, the EASA executive director, said, “For many passengers, and also aircrew members, there is a strong desire for masks to no longer be a mandatory part of air travel,” he added. “We are now at the start of that process. 

“Passengers should continue to comply with the requirements of their airline and, where preventive measures are optional, make responsible decisions and respect the choice of other passengers.” 

Andrea Ammon, ECDC director, added, “While mandatory mask wearing in all situations is no longer recommended, it is important to be mindful that together with physical distancing and good hand hygiene it is one of the best methods of reducing transmission.” 

Patrick Ky expressed that it is excellent for travel to be able to move forward with lighter measures in Europe, and we can all look forward to simpler travels.  

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