Before you catch your next American Airlines flight at Logan International Airport, you want to double check your face coverage.
The Fort Worth, Texas-based airline updated its face policy on Wednesday, announcing that certain coverage will no longer be allowed in early August 19 because they could potentially spread COVID-19.
The airline, which mandated face coverage in May, now prohibits covering covers with exhaust valves or valves, as well as covers made with mesh or lace, according to the press release. The concern, according to the airline, is that such face coverings allow exhaled air through holes in the material.
“Wearing a face mask is a responsibility we all share,” Alison Taylor, chief customer officer at American, said in a statement. “Effective coverage, well-worn, is one of the best ways to control the spread of COVID-19 to protect our team members and customers. Since Americans began asking for face coverage in early May, the vast majority of customers have expected their continued efforts to strengthen policies based on the CDC’s leadership. “
In July, American announced only passengers under the age of 2 exempt from the face coverage policy. The face masts must be worn at the airport, such as on board the aircraft, and those who do not wish to wear them may be refused boarding or hindered from future travel, according to the airline. Customers without an approved face cover can apply for one at the airport, the airline notes.
Here is the breakdown of what is and is not allowed when it comes to face masks, according to American:
Allow:
A well-secured cloth or mask that fits snugly to an individual’s face and nose and mouth. It should be made of a material that prevents the release and release of respiratory droplets from a person’s nose or mouth.
Not allowed:
Face covering with exhaust valves.
Face coatings made with materials such as mesh or lace fabrics.
Face masks that do not cover the nose and mouth.
Face shields without the addition of a face mask.
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