Key Insights on Masks and Travel

This information is provided for reference only. It was accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. For further information and guidance, please refer to official government sources.

Amidst Hollywood dramas and trending dance moves, a significant development in travel emerged this week: numerous airlines and travel services, including Amtrak and Uber, are no longer mandating masks on flights. With this update, travelers are likely to have questions, and we’ve gathered the answers.

The federal requirement for masks on all public transportation is currently not being enforced by agencies such as the TSA (for now), although the CDC continues to recommend mask-wearing while traveling. The choice to implement mask mandates is now in the hands of individual airlines as well as state and local transportation authorities. This also means that individual travelers can choose whether or not to wear masks when no other mandates exist.

Last week, the government announced an extension of the federal mask mandate to May 3rd, which required masks on flights, trains, buses, and other public transport. However, a federal judge subsequently overruled this order. Almost immediately after the ruling, most major US airlines confirmed that masks would no longer be necessary on their flights.

Following the ruling, major airlines such as Delta, United, American, and Southwest quickly announced that masks are no longer mandatory onboard.

For the majority of the US, the TSA will not enforce mask mandates, leaving the decision to you. However, due to state and local regulations, significant airports like LaGuardia and JFK in NYC have stated that masks are still required, according to the Port Authority.

You are no longer obligated to wear a mask on flights within the US. Most airlines have also indicated that their staff are no longer required to wear masks.

If you're traveling from the US to a destination where masks are still mandatory while flying, you’ll need to wear a mask. Keep in mind that airlines have the discretion to establish their own policies regarding masks, so it’s wise to verify with your airline before traveling to see if you need to wear a mask once you're airborne.

This will vary—different countries, states, and even cities may impose their own mask regulations. It's advisable to consult a resource like our Travel Restrictions Map* and follow the guidance from local authorities at your destination.

Amtrak, Uber, and Lyft have announced that masks will not be mandatory for riders and drivers, although organizations like the MTA continue to enforce mask requirements.

Absolutely! Here’s a list from CNN highlighting the cities that are adjusting their mask policies. We suggest you keep your mask handy.

For US travelers returning from international trips, this new ruling does not change the requirement to present a negative COVID test taken within 24 hours of your flight before entering the US.

*We monitor travel restriction updates from government authorities daily and revise the information as new details become available. The travel restriction data for each country is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. For personalized travel advice specific to your plans, such as whether a restriction affects your trip, we cannot provide guidance. Please consult your local government resources.