NEWS: Mask Mandate Extended for Planes and More in the U.S.

To ensure we are equipping our readers with all the information they need, we will continue to report on all travel, safety, and COVID-related news that could impact a Disney Parks visit.

Mask rules and recommendations have started to change in Disney World and around the country, and now we’ve gotten another mask update you need to know about.

Airplane

Not too long ago, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated their mask recommendations with regards to the COVID-19 pandemic. Disney World and Disneyland have since updated their mask requirements, and we’ve seen changes made on Disney Cruise Line as well. Now, another mask change has been made when it comes to general travel in the United States.

The Transportation Security Administration has had a mask mandate in place which requires travelers using various forms of public transportation to wear a mask. This mask mandate has been applicable on airplanes, trains, buses, airports, and train stations.

The mask mandate has been extended several times over the past few months. Most recently it was extended through March 18th, 2022. And now there has been an update on this requirement.

Travel Requirements Are Being Updated

According to a press release from the CDC, “At CDC’s recommendation, TSA will extend the security directive for mask use on public transportation and transportation hubs for one month, through April 18th.”

As USA Today notes, this means travelers in the U.S. who will be using airplanes, trains, or buses, or will be in airports or train stations will need to continue to wear masks during this time.

Airport

In terms of rules and regulations moving forward, the CDC has issued the following statement, “During that time, CDC will work with government agencies to help inform a revised policy framework for when, and under what circumstances, masks should be required in the public transportation corridor. This revised framework will be based on the COVID-19 community levels, risk of new variants, national data, and the latest science. We will communicate any updates publicly if and/or when they change.”

Orlando Airport

USA Today shares that while the mandate was overall “welcomed by the industry and unions,” it hasn’t put an end to “inflight resistance by some passengers, with frequent high-profile incidents causing flights to be delayed and diverted and passengers to be escorted off planes.”

A Look at the Seats

If you’ll be traveling soon, there are a number of COVID-19 related updates you’ll likely want to know about. First, as we mentioned before, the CDC has updated their mask recommendations. The CDC’s updated community levels show what areas individuals should wear a mask in, and where masks are more optional.

©CDC

Disney World has also updated its mask requirements. Masks are now optional for fully vaccinated guests in most places, including indoor locations. Masks continue to be required for all guests, however, while on enclosed transportation.