Major Airlines Now Requiring Masks For Passengers

With many Americans eager to get back to “normal” as soon as it is safe to do so, the airlines are quickly moving to implement new, on-board safety policies that will help keep travelers healthy during air travel.

With that, major airlines are now requiring all passengers to wear masks at points of interaction in the airport and onboard aircrafts. Late last week it was announced that Delta, United, and American Airlines will be putting this requirement in place. Shortly after, Alaska and Southwest Airlines followed suit. This came on the heels of JetBlue and Lufthansa making similar announcements earlier in the week. 

In the coming weeks, we expect more airlines to adopt this policy. We’ve got our eye on new developments and will keep this list updated.

Alaska Airlines

Mandatory mask requirements begin on May 11. According to Alaska Air, travelers should wear the masks in the airport and “throughout the flight experience.” 

Passengers are expected to bring their own masks, however some masks will be available to those who do not have one.

American Airlines

Mandatory mask requirements begin on May 11. 

Mask exceptions: 

• Very young passengers are exempt
• Any passenger with conditions that prevent them from wearing a face covering is  exempt

American will be issuing masks - as well as sanitizing wipes - to travelers beginning today, May 1 to those who need them.

Delta Airlines

Mandatory mask requirements begin on May 4th. Masks will be required in check-in areas, Delta Sky Clubs, boarding gate areas, jet bridges, and onboard. 

Mask exceptions: 

• People unable to keep a face covering in place, including children, are exempt
• Masks do not have to be worn during meal services

Travelers are encouraged to bring their own masks, however Delta will supply masks to those who do not have one.

Frontier

Mandatory mask requirements begin on May 8. This requirement will apply at ticket counters, in gate areas, and onboard aircrafts.

Mask exceptions: 

• Young children are exempt

Frontier will not provide masks for customers - all travelers need to bring their own.

Iberia

Mandatory mask requirements begin on May 5. Masks must be worn from the moment of boarding the aircraft through the duration of the flight.

Passengers are required to bring their own mask. If you are not wearing a mask, you will not be permitted to board the flight.

JetBlue

Mandatory mask requirements begin on May 4. Masks are required during check-in, boarding, inflight, and when deplaning.

Mask exceptions: 

• Small children are exempt

JetBlue will remind passengers of the requirement prior to flights by email.

Lufthansa

Mandatory mask requirements begin on May 4. Masks are required while at the airport and while onboard the aircraft.

The airline says travelers should bring their own face covering, preferably a reusable fabric mask. However, they will also accept “scarves, disposable masks and other types of coverings.” 

Passengers will be notified of the rule via text message or email prior to their flight. The requirement will last until August 31.

Spirit Airlines

Mandatory mask requirements begin on May 11. Masks are required at the airport and while onboard.

Spirit passengers will have to bring their own face masks.

Mask exceptions: 

• Young children are exempt

Southwest Airlines

Mandatory mask requirements begin on May 11.

Travelers are encouraged to bring their own mask but if you do not have one or forgot yours, one will be provided to you.

United Airlines

Mandatory mask requirements begin on May 4. 

United will provide masks free of charge, but encourage travelers to bring their own.

5/4/20 This is a developing story and this post will be updated as more information becomes available.