Strategic Policy

Statement from A4A on Mask Requirements for Air Travel

May 14, 2021

WASHINGTON, May 14, 2021 – Today, the CDC, DOT and TSA issued a joint statement reminding “the traveling public that at this time if you travel, you are still required to wear a mask on planes… and in U.S. transportation hubs such as airports and stations.” Airlines for America issued the following statement in support of the CDC, DOT and TSA policy:

CDC’s updated guidance continues to require that all travelers wear face masks on airplanes and at airports, and U.S. airlines will continue to work with the TSA and FAA to vigorously enforce the federal mandate.

The safety and wellbeing of passengers and employees is always the top priority of the U.S. airlines. Face coverings are a critical measure in our multi-layered approach to protecting the traveling public, which is why U.S. airlines have been vigorously enforcing face covering requirements since April 2020. The federal mask mandate is an additional layer of support, which strengthens our flight crews’ ability to enforce face covering requirements for the duration of the pandemic.

The CDC has stated that fully vaccinated people are safe to travel and can resume travel. The full statement issued by the CDC, DOT and TSA today is available here: https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/us-dot-statement-wearing-masks-while-traveling