Register

Airlines Get Serious About Face Coverings

Airline efforts to stem COVID-19 infections include leaving open the middle seat on all aircraft. Anna Shvets/Pexels
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • U.S. airlines initially had varying COVID-19 related policies, but major carriers, through Airlines for America (A4A), have now committed to vigorously enforcing face-covering mandates.
  • Member airlines will implement and clearly communicate their specific face-covering rules, with consequences for non-compliance ranging from denied boarding to suspension of flying privileges.
  • Despite industry-wide enforcement, flight attendant unions are calling for a federal government mandate on face coverings, as the FAA considers it a public health issue outside its purview, complicating consistent enforcement.
See a mistake? Contact us.

Americans planning airline travel the past month have felt as if they’re caught in the middle of a family argument over expectations related to COVID-19. Some airlines said they’ve demanded face coverings while others have only recommended the move. Some airlines said they’d leave the middle seat open to support the social-distancing efforts while others say they’ll fill up every available seat when possible.

Rob Mark

Rob Mark is an award-winning journalist, business jet pilot, flight instructor, and blogger.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE