Federal Transportation officials considering lifting mask mandate for travel

BOSTON — Covid restrictions have been dropping as cases continue to decline, and the next time you fly you might not be required to wear a mask. Federal transportation officials are considering letting the mask mandate expire on the 18th.

The TSA’s mask mandate was put in place in January of 2021, but many US airlines have been requiring passengers to wear masks on planes since May of 2020. That could all change in two weeks.

Mask mandates have been lifted across the country, but the federal mask mandate covering airports, trains, and other forms of public transportation remains in effect until March 18th. This mandate has been extended several times and it’s caused some uproar among passengers.

The FAA reported so far this year, there already have been 474 unruly passenger incidents involving masks. Federal officials have indicated the mask mandate might end if people continue to get vaccinated to ensure safety everywhere.

“Transportation’s another arena where I think a lot of us are looking forward to being able to put so many of these pandemic restrictions behind us,” said Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

Some passengers at Logan Airport said they are ready to take their masks off.

“It’s a long flight to be breathing in your own air. It’s just hot, honestly,” said Tyler Lambert. “I hate every second of it. We probably should never be wearing them, and here we are, we’re still wearing them, and it’s just against our freedoms in my opinion.”

If lifted on the 18th, this mandate would be lifted in time for those traveling for spring break.

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