In response to the judge’s decision, the Joe Biden government has announced that it will not continue the mask obligation. A White House spokesman said the government still recommends wearing a face mask on airplanes and at airports.
Airlines United and Alaska immediately announced that travelers no longer have to wear masks on their flights. “Mouth masks have been just as important as boarding passes for the past two years, you couldn’t get on the plane without them. But as of today, that’s optional. While we are happy to see your smiling faces again, we also understand that some may have mixed feelings. Please be kind to each other and realize that wearing a face mask while traveling is still an option,” Alaska Airlines said.
American Airlines and Delta have also announced that they will follow the decision. “We are relieved that the mask is no longer mandatory now that the coronavirus is considered a normal flu virus. Thank you for your support in meeting the rigorous commitments we have made over the years to protect each other and our customers,” Delta said.