For some time Covid restrictions have been easing. This has seen strict rules previously imposed on plane passengers gradually relax.
However this does not mean they have been totally disposed of, far from it. Whilst rules concerning the wearing of face masks have been downgraded from compulsory in the UK, it's not the same around Europe.
We have looked at the face mask rules of the airlines flying in and out of Newcastle Airport. For those who think they can now just turn up without wearing one, think again.
Read more: Greece to scrap Covid rules - including face masks and vaccines passes
EasyJet says...
For flights to, from and within Italy, Austria and Germany - all passengers aged six and over are required to wear a FFP2 when they fly.
For flights to, from and within France, all passengers aged 6 and over are required to wear an FFP2 or surgical masks when they fly. Cloth masks, scarves, visors and masks with valves are not accepted.
For flights between England, Northern Ireland, Jersey, Isle of Man, Croatia, Denmark, Finland, Scotland, Slovenia, Sweden, Gibraltar, Hungary, Switzerland, Poland and Iceland. It's no longer a legal requirement to wear a mask if you’re flying between any of these destinations. It may be helpful to have a mask with you, but wearing a mask is optional and your choice will be respected.
Please remember that masks are only optional when you’re flying between the above destinations. If you are flying from Italy to England for example, a FFP2 mask will still be required.
All other routes. All passengers aged six and over need to wear a suitable face mask (no scarves, face visors or masks with valves) when they fly. You may not be able to board without one. Full details here.
Jet2 says...
It’s no longer a legal requirement to wear a face mask at our airports or onboard our planes. However, as per UK Government guidance, we recommend that you continue to wear a face mask in these spaces, and you might need to wear one when you get to your overseas destination.
You might need to wear a mask when you leave the plane, inside the airport and onboard our transfers to and from your accommodation, even if you’re fully vaccinated.
There may also be additional face mask restrictions in some places, and the rules around ages may differ per destination too. If you fail to wear a face mask in some destinations, you could face a fine from the local authorities. Please check the FCDO website for more information. You need a medical-style mask or a fitted face covering (reusable or disposable) and coverings such as scarves, snoods, balaclavas or similar items are a no-no. Full details here.
Ryanair says...
You must wear a face mask / covering in the airport and on board your flight. Some countries require this to be a surgical face mask (for exemptions, see Ryanair's GTCC). If you are travelling to/from/within Italy, Austria or Germany, it must be a FFP2 face mask. Full details here.
TUI says...
Face masks will no longer be a legal requirement on TUI Airways flights to/from England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales, however in line with UK government and EU Charter guidance, we strongly recommend that you still wear a mask throughout your flight.
It is mandatory for all customers aged six and over travelling to Italy on TUI Airways to wear an FFP2 mask throughout their flight. Please remember to carry evidence if you are medically exempt. Full details here.
British Airways says...
The legal requirement to wear a face covering has now been removed in England and Wales and it says it has updated our face mask policy. Customers are no longer required to wear a mask at some airports in England.
However, as an international airline flying all around the world, it is obliged to ensure our customers continue to comply with local restrictions and meet the requirements of the destination they arrive at. May popular holiday hotspots like France, Germany, Portugal and Spain still require masks to be on the plane and in some case at the terminal. Full list here.
KLM says...
On board you are required to wear a face mask, even if you have been vaccinated against or have recently tested negative for COVID-19. Without one, we cannot allow you to board. Whether you have to wear a mask at the airport differs per country. Please check the local rules of the airports in advance. Face masks must cover nose and mouth and can be surgical or non-surgical. Scarves, bandanas, or cowls are not allowed. Full details here.
Air France says...
For the health and safety of all, the wearing of a surgical mask is mandatory on board our aircraft. Masks may also be required at the airport, depending on local health measures. Full details here.
Emirates says...
You must wear a cloth or medical mask throughout Dubai International airport, during boarding, throughout your flight, and as you leave the aircraft. Children under six years old and customers who have certain medical conditions do not have to wear a mask.
Due to local government regulations, only medical face masks are accepted on flights from Dubai to Germany, France, and Austria. If for medical reasons you’re unable to wear a mask throughout your entire journey, just contact us 48 hours before your flight to request an exception and present your medical certificate at check‑in. You don't have to complete our MEDIF form. Then the cabin crew on your flight will be aware of your exemption. Full details here.
Loganair
Loganair follows the Scottish Government’s guidance to strongly recommend (rather than legally mandate) wearing face coverings on our flights. Loganair customers and crew members can decide whether they wish to wear a face covering aboard. Full details here.
