The CEOs of multiple US-based airlines along with Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta Air Lines, sent a letter to President Biden and his administration Wednesday requesting the government suspend COVID-19 mandates such as the extension of wearing masks in airports and on airplanes. They have also requested to eliminate pre-departure testing for customers entering back into the United States.
“It makes no sense that people are still required to wear masks on airplanes, yet are allowed to congregate in crowded restaurants, schools and at sporting events without masks, despite none of these venues having the protective air filtration system that aircraft do,” as stated in the letter from the CEOs to the White House.
“Considering the improved public health metrics in the U.S. and medical advancements to prevent the worst outcomes of COVID-19, the federal mask mandate and pre-departure testing no longer fits with the current environment,” Bastian said. “We appreciate the leadership of the federal government throughout the pandemic. Current data and science show it’s time to move from mandates to guidance and personal health choices.”
Delta Air Lines cabins— along with many others— feature hospital grade HEPA filters which get replaced twice as many times the government has recommended and a consistent cleaning and sanitizing process of all surfaces within the airport and the airline cabin. Also, with the availability and advancements of the vaccine and N95 and KN95 masks, the choice should be left up to the passengers how they want to protect themselves against COVID.
Delta makes it clear that they are committed to the safety and security of their staff and passengers, and have made their cleanliness and wellness protocols second to none.