As international travel begins to open up after coronavirus restrictions ease, there are plenty of places to jet off to from Northern Ireland.
However, the pandemic means that travel looks different, which includes a requirement to wear face masks during flights.
Each airline operating from Northern Ireland has its own policy regarding the wearing of face coverings and what proof may be required from passengers who are medically exempt from wearing masks onboard.
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If you're planning to travel soon, it's also worth taking note of the rules around face masks at your destination. In the US, for example, face masks are mandatory for any inbound and outbound flights, as well as when walking around the airport.
To help with your travel planning, we've put together a list of the current policies for face masks at each airline flying from Northern Ireland.
easyJet
All passengers aged six and over will be required to wear a face mask at the airport, at the gate when boarding the aircraft, as well as throughout the flight.
Passengers not wearing a mask will not be able to board the aircraft.
You must wear a face mask - scarves, face visors or masks with valves are not permitted, and you may be refused travel.
For those who have a medical exemption from wearing a face mask, easyJet requires passengers to let them know ahead of travel. For some destinations you may be required to have a medical letter or certificate that proves your exemption.
Jet2
Jet2 no longer requires passengers on flights from/to Northern Ireland to wear face masks onboard its flights.
However, you may still be required to wear a mask in airports, on arrival at your destination and in transfers, depending on local Covid rules - make sure to check before you travel.
Passengers on flights to and from Scotland are still required to wear face masks onboard.
A statement on the airline's website adds: "If you’re unable to wear a mask, you must let us know in advance to be able to travel. If you fail to wear a face mask without our agreement, you’ll not be allowed to board your flight or transfer."
Ryanair
It is mandatory to wear a face mask or covering on board Ryanair flights, as well as at the airport. If you have a medical exemption from wearing a face mask, get in touch with the airline before you travel.
TUI
A statement on the TUI website explains: "Everyone aged 12 and over needs to wear a face mask on our flights, including while sleeping, unless you’re exempt due to a medical condition. You’ll need to wear a mask even if you’ve had your two vaccinations. Your face mask must cover your nose, mouth and chin – you can wear a face shield, but you’ll need to wear a face mask, too."
Passengers need to bring their own face masks - and bring spares for long-haul flights to change your face covering every four hours.
If you're exempt for health reasons, you'll need to download a government exemption card, or you can opt for a face shield instead.
Aer Lingus
It is mandatory to wear a face mask or covering on board Aer Lingus flights. A statement on their website confirms if you're medically exempt from doing so, you must present a medical certificate confirming this.
Cabin Crew will also be required to wear face masks for the duration of all flights.
Face coverings can be reusable cloth masks or disposable masks. The airline recommends that these are worn from when you enter your departure airport, to when you leave your destination airport.
Young children who are not able to maintain a face covering are exempt from this requirement.
British Airways
British Airways requires passengers aged 12 and over to wear a face mask at all times in the airport and on board the flight. (The exception is flights to/from the US where it's law for anyone aged two or over to wear a face mask on flights).
They advise passengers on flights longer than four hours to bring extra masks with them. You may be asked to remove your mask at passport checks.
A statement on the BA website adds: "When you’re on board, you’re allowed to remove your face mask for a reasonable time to enable you to eat or drink. When you’re not consuming food or drink, your face mask must be placed back on and must cover your nose and mouth at all times."
Wizz Air
It is compulsory for passengers on Wizz Air flights to wear face masks on board for both passengers and crew. For flights over four hours the airline recommends that passengers bring more face masks.
If you are exempt from wearing a face mask, you'll need to contact Wizz Air's Special Assistance Call Centre at least 48 hours before your flight.
Virgin Atlantic
Virgin Atlantic requires passengers aged 12 and over to wear face masks or face coverings at all times onboard flights and throughout the airport. (If you're flying to/from the US, it's law that anyone aged two or over must wear a face mask on flights).
You can remove the face mask to "eat or drink where it is reasonably necessary to do so", take medication, or to avoid the risk of harm or injury.
If you are exempt from wearing a face mask, you need to get in touch with the airline's Special Assistance team at leat 48 hours before you're due to travel.
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