American Airlines has updated its face coverings policy to eliminate some specific types from being allowed on flights.
American Airlines currently allows:
- Cloth face covering or mask that “fits snugly against the face and covers an individual’s nose and mouth.”
- The mask “must be made of a material that prevents the discharge and release of respiratory droplets from a person’s nose or mouth.”
American Airlines added the following mask to its “not allowed” list:
- Masks with exhaust valves or vents
- Coverings made with mesh or lace.
- Coverings that don’t cover nose and mouth.
- Face shields without additional face covering.
The change came because American Airlines worried the face coverings have the potential of spreading the novel coronavirus. Specifically, these masks may allow the virus to spread through holes in the material.
“Wearing a face covering is a responsibility we all share. An effective covering, worn properly, is one of the best ways we can control the spread of COVID-19 to protect our team members and customers. Since American began requiring face coverings in early May, the vast majority of customers have welcomed our continuing efforts to strengthen the policy based on the CDC’s guidance.” — Alison Taylor, chief customer officer at American Airlines, in a statement