Airlines, Passengers React as Mask Mandate Ends

A federal judge in Florida struck down the government's transportation mask mandate on Monday, saying the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had no power to do it.

The mask-wearing rule will no longer be enforced by the Transportation Security Administration.

The airlines began to comply with the new ruling after the news began to trickle out.

Alaska Airlines had flights in the air when the decision was made.

“Ladies and gentlemen, this is your pilot speaking. This is the most important announcement I’ve ever made. The federal mask mandate is over. Take off your mask if you choose!”

A wonderful moment mid flight on @alaskaair today! pic.twitter.com/nWSatDRB83

— Ben Dietderich (@ben_dietd) April 18, 2022

Alaska Airlines, American, Delta, Southwest, and United all made mask-wearing optional.

American Airlines has prioritized the health and safety of its team members and customers throughout the Pandemic and has supported the federal government's measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. The face masks that were required for our customers and team members at US airports will no longer be required. In keeping with our commitment to creating a welcoming environment for everyone who travels with us, customers and team members may choose to wear masks at their own discretion.

In the immediate aftermath of the ruling, the airlines urged caution and patience.

Delta Air Lines said in a statement that passengers may experience inconsistent enforcement during the next 24 hours.

For some, it happened too quickly. They were not happy.

I am on a plan with my 2 not-yet-eligible for vax kids & the pilot just announced that the mask mandate has just this minute ended. Ppl clapped & took off their masks. Here we are having boarded a plane with our kids. Very upset, @Delta, that this was announced mid flight.

— Brooke Tansley (@BrookeTansley) April 19, 2022

The U.S. Travel Association Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and Policy said that the decision to stop enforcement of the federal mask mandate will return the choice of mask usage on planes and other forms of public transportation to travelers and travel industry workers.

She used the statement to lobby the White House.

Pre-departure testing for inbound international passengers which discourages travel and provides limited public health benefits should be stopped immediately, Barnes said.

Airlines are making it clear to passengers that they can't be mean to fellow travelers if they still want to wear a mask.

Face masks have been like boarding passes for nearly two years. Alaska Airlines said that masks are optional in airports and onboard aircraft, effective immediately. Please remember to be kind to one another and that wearing a mask while traveling is still an option.