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Daily Record
Daily Record
Lifestyle
Julie Delahaye & Sophie Law

TUI, easyJet, Jet2, Ryanair and BA face mask rule updates amid travel changes

Travellers who have been lucky enough to jet away on holiday during the pandemic will be aware of the strict face mask rule while on a plane.

Each airline has set its own policy regarding rules for face masks during the pandemic, with passengers also required to wear a covering while passing through airports.

Now Jet2 has become the first airline to remove face mask rules on planes - but not for Scottish passengers.

The budget airline removed the legal requirement to wear masks, with passengers flying to and from Scotland still to wear a face covering onboard flights.

But what are the rules for other major airlines in the UK?

To help you know of all the rules, here's the latest updates from major airlines about face mask rules, The Mirror reports.

TUI

Passengers in Glasgow Airport (PA)

A statement on the TUI website explains: "Everyone aged 12 and over needs to wear a face mask on our flights, including while sleeping, unless you’re exempt due to a medical condition.

"You’ll need to wear a mask even if you’ve had your two vaccinations. Your face mask must cover your nose, mouth and chin – you can wear a face shield, but you’ll need to wear a face mask, too."

Passengers need to bring their own face masks - and bring spares for long-haul flights to change your face covering every four hours.

If you're exempt for health reasons, you'll need to download a government exemption card, or you can opt for a face shield instead.

Jet2

(PA)

Jet2 no longer requires passengers on flights from/to England and Northern Ireland to wear face masks onboard its flights.

However, you may still be required to wear a mask in airports, on arrival at your destination and in transfers, depending on local Covid rules - check before you travel.

Passengers on flights to and from Scotland are still required to wear face masks in flights.

A statement on the airline's website adds: "If you’re unable to wear a mask, you must let us know in advance to be able to travel. If you fail to wear a face mask without our agreement, you’ll not be allowed to board your flight or transfer."

easyJet

All passengers aged six and over will be required to wear a face mask at the airport, at the gate when boarding the aircraft, and throughout the flight.

Passengers not wearing a mask will not be able to board the aircraft.

You must wear a face mask - scarves, face visors or masks with valves are not permitted, and you may be refused travel.

For those who have a medical exemption from wearing a face mask, easyJet requires passengers to let them know ahead of travel. For some destinations you may be required to have a medical letter or certificate that proves your exemption.

Ryanair

It is mandatory to wear a face mask or covering on board Ryanair flights (REUTERS)

It is mandatory to wear a face mask or covering on board Ryanair flights, as well as at the airport. If you have a medical exemption from wearing a face mask, get in touch with the airline before you travel.

British Airways

British Airways requires passengers aged 12 and over to wear a face mask at all times in the airport and on board the flight. (The exception is flights to/from the US where it's law for anyone aged two or over to wear a face mask on flights).

They advise passengers on flights longer than four hours to bring extra masks with them. You may be asked to remove your mask at passport checks.

A statement on the BA website adds: "When you’re on board, you’re allowed to remove your face mask for a reasonable time to enable you to eat or drink. When you’re not consuming food or drink, your face mask must be placed back on and must cover your nose and mouth at all times."

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic requires passengers aged 12 and over to wear face masks or face coverings at all times onboard flights and throughout the airport. (If you're flying to/from the US, it's law that anyone aged two or over must wear a face mask on flights).

You can remove the face mask to "eat or drink where it is reasonably necessary to do so", take medication, or to avoid the risk of harm or injury.

If you are exempt from wearing a face mask, you need to get in touch with the airline's Special Assistance team at leat 48 hours before you're due to travel.

Wizz Air

It is compulsory for passengers on Wizz Air flights to wear face masks on board for both passengers and crew. For flights over four hours the airline recommends that passengers bring more face masks.

If you are exempt from wearing a face mask, you'll need to contact Wizz Air's Special Assistance Call Centre at least 48 hours before your flight.

Norwegian Air

Face masks are mandatory for passengers aged 16 or over on board Norwegian Air flights. Face masks must cover your nose and mouth and "must be made for the purpose" - for example, scarves won't be accepted.

You can remove your mask while eating and drinking during the flight.

You may not be granted boarding if you are not wearing a face mask.

The airline says: "If you have a medical condition that prevents you from wearing a mask, you must present a medical document to the gate staff confirming this before boarding."

Emirates

A statement on the Emirates website explains: "You must wear a cloth or medical mask throughout Dubai International, during boarding, throughout your flight, and as you leave the aircraft. Children under 6 years old and customers who have certain medical conditions do not have to wear a mask.

Due to local government regulations, only medical face masks are accepted on flights from Dubai to Germany, France, and Austria.

If for medical reasons you’re unable to wear a mask throughout your entire journey, you need to complete a Medical Information Form (MEDIF) before your flight."

  • Rules are correct at the time of writing but can be subject to change. Contact your airline if you have any queries.

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