Gone are the days when a neck pillow and good book were the most important items to have on a plane with you. In our current environment health and safety measures are paramount and that means wearing a face mask. While every U.S. carrier is currently requiring travelers to wear appropriate face masks some details in their policies vary.
Know before you go
Delta, Hawaiian Airlines and Allegiant are currently the only airlines that have medical exemption policies for travelers who have conditions that inhibit their ability to wear a mask. Both Delta and Hawaiian Airlines require customers with underlying conditions that explicitly prevent the wearing of a face covering or mask to complete a clearance process prior to departure at the airport. Early arrival at the airport is recommended as the process can take an hour. Allegiant airlines states that those with medical conditions that prevent the use of a face covering must provide documentation from a medical physician to the gate agent one hour prior to departure.
All other U.S carriers are requiring customers age two and above to wear appropriate face coverings at all times unless eating or drinking. Passengers who have medical conditions that inhibit their ability to wear masks are encouraged to reconsider travel at this time as there are no exceptions to the mask requirements.
I have young children that won’t keep their masks on. Can they travel without a mask?
Probably not. All U.S. carriers are requiring travelers age two and over to adhere to the face mask policy. We know it is hard. The airlines know it’s hard too, but in the middle of pandemic airlines are sticking closely to their safety policies. If you don’t think your little one will comply, a different mode of transportation may work better for you. Don’t count on a kindhearted flight attendant bending the rules a little right now.
Can I wear a face shield instead?
Probably not. Face shield are allowed on most carriers if used together with a face mask, but not instead of one.
Airlines are balancing a lot of things in order to keep customers safe and willing to fly right now. As a result, their policies change often. Always check your carrier’s website before you leave to make sure you are equipped with the most up to date requirements and expectations.