Qantas has ruled out the requirement to wear masks for some international flights, says an internal note distributed to staff.
As of Tuesday, the mask’s mandate will not apply to the crew or passengers of non-stop flights from NSW, Queensland and Western Australia to the United States, the United Kingdom and Rome.
Qantas will no longer require masks on some international flights. Credit: Louise Kennerley
“The elimination of mask warrants for airports and some international flights reinforces that lifting mask warrants on board aircraft in all environments is the next appropriate step, with global studies showing that the risk of transmission within of the cabin is very low, “the note said.
Masks will continue to be offered to passengers and crew who choose to wear them.
Qantas passengers and crew on board international flights and domestic flights are still required to wear masks.
All Qantas flights from Melbourne Airport remain subject to the mask mandate, and the airline is committed to making arrangements to remove the requirement whenever possible.
“The change to flight mask requirements on some international flights is an important step in our transition to living with Covid, and we welcome that change,” the letter told staff.
Last week, the Australian Chief Health Protection Committee lifted the mandate at the Australian airport terminals.