Face mask rules for airlines flying from Northern Ireland including easyJet, RyanAir and Jet2

International travel opens after coronavirus restrictions ease, there are many places to fly from Northern Ireland.

However, the pandemic means the flight will look different, including the necessity to wear masks during the flight.

Each airline operating from Northern Ireland has its own policies regarding the use of face masks and what tests may be required for travelers who are medically exempt from wearing face masks on board.

If you’re planning a trip soon, it’s also worth considering the rules for face masks at your destination. In the United States, for example, masks are mandatory for all domestic and foreign flights, as well as for airport walks.

To help you plan your trip, we’ve compiled a list of current face mask policies for every airline flying from Northern Ireland.

easyJet

All passengers over the age of six must wear a face mask at the airport, when boarding an aircraft at the gate and during the flight.

Passengers without a mask will not be able to board the plane.

You must wear a face mask – No scarves, masks or valve masks are allowed and you may refuse to travel.

For those who have a medical exemption from wearing a mask, EasyJet requires passengers to notify them before travelling. For some indications, you may need a medical letter or certificate confirming your release.

Jet 2

Jet2 no longer requires passengers from Northern Ireland and incoming flights to wear face masks on its flights.

However, you may need to wear a face mask at airports, on arrival and on transfers, as per local Covid rules – be sure to check before departure.

Passengers traveling from Scotland to and from Scotland are still required to wear face masks on board.

A statement posted on the airline’s website read: “If you cannot wear the mask, you must tell us in advance that you can travel. If you cannot wear the mask without our consent, you will not be eligible. On board the flight or transportation.”

Ryan Air

It is mandatory to wear a mask or cover on board Ryanair flights as well as at the airport. If you have a medical exception to wearing a face mask, contact the airline before departure.

TUI

A statement posted on the TUI website read: “Everyone over the age of 12 must wear a face mask on our flights, even before bed, unless they have a medical condition. You will need to wear a face mask even if you have had both vaccinations.” Your face mask should cover your nose, mouth and chin – you can wear a face mask, but you’ll also need to wear a face mask.”

Passengers must bring their own face masks – and long-haul spare parts – to change face masks every four hours.

If you are fired for health reasons, you will need to download a government exemption card or you can choose a mask.

Aria Lingus

A mask or cover is required on board Aer Lingus flights. The statement on their website confirms that if you are medically exempt, you must provide a medical certificate confirming this.

Cabin crew are also required to wear face masks on all flights.

Face covering can consist of reusable cloth masks or disposable masks. The airline recommends wearing it before entering the departure airport before leaving the destination airport.

Young children who are unable to maintain a face covering are exempted from this requirement.

British Airways

British Airways requires passengers over the age of 12 to wear a face mask at all times at the airport and on board. (Exceptions are flights from the USA/USA, where it is legal for someone over two years old to wear a face mask on flights.)

They advise passengers on flights of more than four hours to bring additional masks. You may be asked to remove your mask during passport control.

A statement on the BA’s website added: “When boarding the plane, you have the right to remove the face mask at a reasonable time so that you can eat and drink. When you do not eat or drink, use the face mask. You must return it and always cover your nose and mouth.”

Wizz Air

It is mandatory for passengers on board Wizz Air flights to wear a mask on board for both passengers and crew members. For flights of more than four hours, the airline recommends that passengers bring multiple types of masks.

If you are exempt from wearing a face mask, you must contact the Wizz Air Special Assistance Call Center at least 48 hours before your flight.

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic requires passengers over the age of 12 to wear face masks or face masks at all times on flights and throughout the airport. (If you are traveling to the United States, it is legal for children under the age of two to wear a mask during the flight.)

You may remove the mask in order to “eat or drink as reasonably necessary,” take medication, or avoid risks of damage or infection.

If you are exempted from wearing a face mask, you must contact the airline’s support team at least 48 hours prior to travel.