Europe drops mask mandate for flights and airports

[reader]

From CNBC

The European Union is set to drop its mask mandate for passengers on flights and in airports from Monday, following an update to guidelines for the aviation industry.

The recommendation for mandatory wearing of medical masks in airports and on board a flight is being lifted on May 16, EU’s Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control said last week, while noting that a face mask is still one of the best protections against the transmission of Covid-19.

The updated guidance takes into account the latest developments in the pandemic, “in particular the levels of vaccination and naturally acquired immunity, and the accompanying lifting of restrictions in a growing number of European countries,” the EASA said in a statement.

However, individual airlines can still choose to recommend or require mask-wearing on board the EASA said, with rules likely to continue to vary by airline beyond Monday.

For example, flights to or from a destination where mask-wearing is still required on public transport should continue to encourage mask wearing, according to the recommendations. Vulnerable passengers should continue to wear a face mask regardless of the rules, the EASA added, and social distancing should be encouraged in indoor areas at the airport where possible.

[Riobard]

Just now boarding a flight out of Europe. About 10% of the mob queues for security clearance and passport control wearing a mask.