US and Canadian airlines have begun phasing in Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) restrictions for passengers, with carriers either encouraging or mandating mask-wearing.
Jetblue
Jetblue will require all passengers to wear a face-covering onboard their flights, according to an airline press release.
The airline has stated that from 4th May, all customers will be required to wear a face-covering throughout check-in, boarding and throughout the flight.
“Wearing a face covering isn’t about protecting yourself it’s about protecting those around you. This is the new flying etiquette. Onboard, cabin air is well circulated and cleaned through filters every few minutes but this is a shared space where we have to be considerate of others.”
Joanna Geraghty, President and Cheif Operating Officer, Jetblue
Air Canada and WestJet
The Canadian Government has implemented a mandatory requirement for all airline passengers to wear a face-covering.
Both Air Canada and WestJet have introduced heightened social distancing measures, as well as strictly enforcing the Canadian Government’s face-covering restriction.
All passengers will have their ID’s checked, requiring face masks to be removed at various stages of travel.
US Major Carriers
American Airlines and Delta have begun issuing surgical masks to passengers, in an effort to protect cabin crew.
In a staff memo seen by CNBC, Delta has said that they will require staff to wear a face-covering; making surgical masks available at check-in, boarding and onboard the aircraft.
American Airlines has also revealed that from early May, face-coverings will be strongly encouraged. Masks and hand sanitiser will be provided to all travelling passengers.
“We are looking out for our customers’ well-being to give them peace of mind while they travel with us.”
Kurt Stache, Senior Vice President of Customer Experience, American Airlines
This trend of PPE use onboard aircraft may continue beyond the coronavirus pandemic, with positive reactions from flight crews globally.
Article Sources: CNBC, Jetblue, Air Canada, WestJet, and American Airlines.