*Updated: July 2024. Original article written: September 2021

Wearing a mask when flying

The act of flying with a mask became essential at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The issue wasn't just wearing a mask; it had to be a specific type. Since then, airlines have removed their mask-wearing requirements during flights, but travellers still have the choice to wear a mask while travelling based on their personal preference.

Common questions about mask wearing on the airplane:

• Does it matter what kind of mask you wear during the flight?
• Do you have to wear a mask to fly?
• Other mask tips when travelling to note?

Wearing masks on the airplane before the pandemic

'Why is she wearing a mask?'

Back in 2017, my friends were perhaps a bit curious when they saw me with a mask onboard the flight; however, in some regions of the world, particularly in Asia, wearing face masks in public has been considered a 'normal' practice. Prior to the pandemic, although it depended solely on the traveller, the reasons for wearing a mask on a flight included:

• allergies
• protecting your throat and skin from the dryness
• or simply for hiding (you're a famous celebrity or perhaps you didn't feel like putting any make-up on for a 10+ hrs flight)

At least, this act of wearing a mask onboard a flight wasn't a common practice for most travellers in the world until the pandemic struck.

Does it matter what kind of mask you wear during the flight?

Yes. From what we learned during the pandemic, there are many types of masks available. From simple disposable/surgical masks to fabric (cloth) masks and also the KN95s, KF94s, N95s (and others) known for their filtration efficiency, there are various kinds.

As airlines no longer have a requirement on which types of masks to wear, this solely depends on the user and their level of comfort and needs.

Do you have to wear a mask to fly?

No. Once again, this requirement have been lifted by many of the airlines. Although it we encounter another similar situation, this requirement would most likely be adopted once again.

Then why should I wear a mask?

Travellers may still want to wear a mask for a few reasons:

• Allergy prevention: Masks can block allergens like dust and pollen inside the cabin, preventing allergic reactions.

• Comfort, privacy, and perhaps peace of mind: Wearing a mask is especially beneficial for those who wish to avoid facial recognition or prefer not to wear makeup during long or red-eye flights. Additionally, wearing a mask may help reduce anxiety about potential exposure to viruses or illnesses while travelling.

• Decreased spread of viruses/illnesses: It's challenging to avoid catching whatever the passengers behind or around you may have when you hear them coughing or sneezing. Masks help reduce the spread of airborne viruses, including COVID-19, influenza, and the common cold, by trapping respiratory droplets.

• Shield against pathogens: Unfortunately, airplane cabins are enclosed environments. Despite the aircraft having air-filtration systems, it is still possible to be exposed to various microorganisms.

• Retaining moisture: One of the challenges when travelling onboard is moisture retention. Although the air inside the cabins is recirculated for temperature control, there is a low level of humidity in the pressurized cabin due to the high altitude. Wearing a mask helps alleviate dryness in the throat and nasal passages to some extent.

Other mask tips when travelling?

Good to know tips before heading to the airport:

• Have one in your luggage: You never know when one might come in handy.

Despite the fact that most modern commercial planes are now equipped with high-grade HEPA filters while in the air, ensuring the safety of oneself and those around you should be prioritised, especially while still on the ground.

So, in addition to searching for cheap flight fares, understanding baggage allowances, or what items to add or not in the checked baggage, take a moment to also familiarise yourself with the new travel rules before being caught by surprise at the airport.

When the time is right, please check and compare flights and book your next flight with BudgetAir Australia. Travel safe!

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