Covid-19: Face masks no longer mandatory on flights, airports in India

Wearing a face mask is no longer mandatory at airports and aboard domestic or international flights, according to an order issued by the Indian civil aviation ministry on Wednesday.

Till now, the use of masks or face covers while travelling on flights was mandatory. The Ministry of Civil Aviation said that the decision has been taken following a review meeting on the issue with the Ministry of Health.

In a communication to the scheduled airlines, the ministry said the latest decision has been taken in line with the government's policy of a graded approach to Covid-19 management response.

"... 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," the communication said.

It also said that any specific reference to fine/penal action need not be announced as part of the in-flight announcements.

The total number of active coronavirus cases in the country accounted was only 0.02 per cent of the total infections and the recovery rate increased to 98.79 per cent, according to the latest official data.

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