Facemasks will no longer be mandatory for domestic and international air travellers in India. The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MocA) has relaxed the Covid-19 guidelines that stipulated the use of face covers or masks during air travel.

In a directive issued on November 16, the ministry said that a review of Covid-19 guidelines was carried out in consultation with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. “In line with the government of India’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 masks/face covers. Any specific reference to fine or penal action need not be announced as part of the in-flight announcements. The consolidated Covid-19 instructions for domestic and international air travel issued for air passengers, airport operators and airlines stand modified to that extent”, an office memorandum issued by the ministry said.

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