Masks no more mandatory during air travel, but advisable: Centre
The Ministry of Civil Aviation on Wednesday said the use of masks was not compulsory for passengers during air travel, PTI reported citing the official order. However, the order said that travelers were advised to use masks. The decision was made in accordance with the government's policy of a graduated approach to COVID-19 management response, according to the report.
What did the order say?
"...the in-flight announcements henceforth may only mention that in view of the threat posed by COVID-19, all passengers should preferably use mask/face covers," said the government communication to airlines. According to the latest official data, the total number of active coronavirus cases in the country accounted for just 0.02 percent of overall infections, and the recovery rate improved to 98.79 percent.
Check revised guidelines for air travel
Lowest drop of COVID-19 cases since 2020
According to reports, wearing masks was among the last few remaining COVID-19 time conditions under which scheduled flights were allowed to operate. The order by the aviation ministry was issued following the recommendations of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. India reported 501 new coronavirus infections during 24 hours, a day after seeing the lowest drop of 474 cases since April 6, 2020.
Other COVID-19 restrictions lifted earlier
As the pandemic situation has improved, India has been lifting COVID time restrictions such as those on domestic airfare range; inflight meal and beverage serving selling; percentage of domestic flights allowed; restrictions on scheduled international flights; and testing and quarantine requirements.
