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Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines, said the airline will handle those with weakened immune systems or concerns about the no-mask policy, for any reason.
"We are working with customers to find solutions, giving them the freedom to choose. If customers no longer wish to fly, we will issue a refund," Kirby told NBC.
Another United Airlines representative stated that economy class passengers are permitted to reschedule their flights at any time without additional charge. However, business class passengers or those with more specific circumstances should contact customer service for assistance.
The US was noted as the first country to show signs of tourism recovery to pre-pandemic levels, with airline ticket sales in February 2022 exceeding those of the same period in 2019.
Meanwhile, Robert Isom, CEO of American Airlines, said the airline has not received many requests for flight changes or refunds from customers since the mask-free policy went into effect.
"In circumstances like these, our process ensures that passengers contact the booking department as early as possible. We can then meet customer needs in the most reasonable way," Mr. Isom shared.
However, according toafar,The current airline policies are ineffective. To receive a refund, customers have to pay more for their tickets – which drives up the price many times over. Furthermore, passengers who purchased tickets from the beginning of April onwards will not be eligible for this refund policy.
Airlines in the US are gradually waiving mask-wearing requirements - Photo: AP.
On April 19th, a federal judge in California (USA) justAbolish the mask-wearing requirement.When traveling by plane, the mask mandate takes effect immediately upon issuance. However, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has extended the mask mandate until May 3rd. The organization wants more time to study the BA.2 omicron variant.
The new mask policy has sparked mixed reactions, with airlines hoping to eliminate masks as soon as possible. Meanwhile, most public transportation services in New York require passengers to wear masks.
