British Airways and Virgin Atlantic No Longer Require Masks on US Flights

Passengers on British Airways and Virgin Atlantic’s transatlantic flights to the United States will no longer be required to wear masks.

On Tuesday, both carriers changed their mask regulations to make masks optional on flights to the United States.

The restriction was eased when a federal court in Florida struck down the US government’s mask demand for passengers on planes, trains, buses, and other forms of public transportation on Monday.

Virgin Atlantic’s website has been modified to include the following information: “Following the ruling of a United States district court judge on Monday 18th April, the Biden administration has announced that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will no longer enforce the federal mandate requiring masks onboard aircraft.

“Effective immediately (Tuesday 19th April), face masks will be a personal choice for our customers and people travelling in either direction between the UK and the United States.

“We encourage everyone to be respectful of fellow passengers’ mask preferences, with masks still available for those wishing to wear them.

“Customers may be asked to wear a mask when boarding or disembarking flights, according to the regulations of the departure or arrival airport or destination country/US state.”

Facemasks are no longer necessary for passengers flying to and from the United States, according to BA’s website.

Following Monday’s verdict, major US carriers dropped their mask requirements, making facial coverings optional for passengers.

Many European airlines have made it mandatory for passengers and crew members to wear face coverings only when flying to countries where they are required.

However, in accordance with French and German Covid legislation, Air France and Lufthansa indicated they will continue to enforce mask mandates on all of their routes. Last month, KLM stopped enforcing mask restrictions, but it still “highly recommends” that passengers wear them, according to the European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s recommendations.