Masks on flights made optional, but preferable: Centre ANI

New Delhi: Flyers will no longer be penalised for not masking on domestic and international flights, the civil aviation ministry announced Wednesday while making face masks optional but "preferable" for travellers.

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Citing the Centre's "graded approach" to managing the pandemic, the order states that airlines need to henceforth "only mention" during in-flight announcements that all passengers should preferably use masks or face covers to cut the risk of contracting and spreading Covid. "Any specific reference to fine/penal action need not be announced as part of the in-flight announcements."