International Mask Mandate Confusion

Date: April 29, 2022

Although masks are no longer required for U.S. domestic flights, there is still less clarity, uncertainty, and confusion for travel to/from many international cities.  This is especially the case with several new and seasonal destinations that have been added to our summer schedule.

While United asserts monitoring continues in search of additional changes to mask mandates, at this point, we know the following:

• You are no longer required to wear a mask nor are you required to enforce a mask requirement for most of the flying public in the U.S.  Having said this, United has also established a clear expectation consistent with the Working Together Guidelines.  That is, we are expected to respect the individual decisions of those employees and customers who choose to continue wearing masks
• Passengers and fellow crewmembers may choose to continue to wear masks onboard U.S. flights. If a passenger or crewmember asks you for a mask, to the extent a supply remains available in the customer kit, please continue to provide it.
• Unless on an international flight where masking is required, please discontinue all announcements and refrain from informing passengers about a requirement to wear a mask.
• Effective immediately, mask compliance cards are not to be distributed on any flights.

As pre-departure and/or arrival testing requirements continue for some locations, please ensure before your trip to verify you have the most up-to-date information.  These changes roll out daily, it is important that you read through all the information applicable to your destination/departure location and direct any questions to your domicile supervisor.