Airlines request that Biden lift mask mandates

The airline trade group that supported a federal mask mandate for all air travelers has asked the Biden administration to end the mask requirement and eliminate other COVID-19 protocols for travelers.

Airlines for America, which represents American, Delta, United, Southwest, Alaska, JetBlue and other carriers, released a letter this week addressed to President Biden, saying “the persistent and steady decline of hospitalization and death rates are the most compelling indicator that our country is well protected against disease from COVID19.”

“Now is the time for the administration to sunset federal transportation travel restrictions, including the international predeparture testing requirement and federal mask mandates,” the letter said.

The U.S. Travel Association, which represents the country’s travel industry, also issued a letter asking the Biden administration to end coronavirus testing for international travelers to the U.S. and mask mandates on flights.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention two weeks ago announced a onemonth extension to the mask mandate for passengers on planes, buses, trains and transit hubs, to April 18. The CDC also said it was developing guidance to ease the mandate as soon as April.

In response to the extension, the Transportation Workers Union, which represents mechanics, baggage handlers, flight attendants and other transportation workers, said it supported any “federal guidance based on science,” but noted that the mask mandate has led to harassment and assaults against flight attendants.

Thanassis Stavrakis / Associated Press Members of the French navy attend a parade commemorating Greek independence day in Athens. The event was open to spectators with the easing of coronavirus restrictions.