In travel news for April 19, 2022 we have an important mask update for Air Travel and good new from Australia, and new rules that will protect Cruise passengers.
U.S. Mask Mandate Overturned
Yesterday a federal judge overturned the federal Mask Mandate for public transpiration. Ruling that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention exceeded it’s authority with the mandate, failed to adequately explain it’s decision, and failed to to get public comment before the mandate was put in place. The Biden Administration has not yet determined if they will be appealing the decision, or what if any future actions would be taken.
Shortly after the ruling the Transportation Security Administration released a statement that they will no longer be enforcing the rule. Numerous airlines, including United, American, Delta, and SouthWest followed by dropping mask requirements. This was quickly followed by ride sharing services Uber and Lyft who also removed mask requirements.
It’s important to understand that this order only eliminates the ability for the federal government to mandate that masks be worn on public transportation. This ruling doesn’t take away the ability for carriers or airports to require that masks be worn. We’ve already seen this with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which handles operation of subways and buses in New York City which said they would continue to require that masks be worn by rides. Also in New York, the Port Authority, which oversees some trains, bus terminals, as well as LaGuardia and JFK Airports has also decided to keep a mask rules in effect. Those flying internationally could still be required to wear a mask. So far this seems to be based on rules for the destination country.
Australia Eliminates Pre-Departure Testing
The recently reopened Australia has removed testing requirements for all inbound travelers. Previously to enter Australia a traveler would need to provide proof of negative covid test taken within 72 hours of their departure. Australia still has a vaccination requirement, so all travelers to the country have to be fully vaccinated in order to be allowed entry. Australia re-opened to travelers in late February.
New Rules to Protect Cruise Customers
Good news for those looking to take a Cruise. The Federal Maritime Commission, the government agency that regulates U.S. based ocean travel around at the world, has put new rules into effect to protect passengers. These new rules will entitle cruise customers to a full cash refund if a cruise operator delays or cancels a trip. Before this rule, in the event of a cancellation, cruise lines would issue credits to be used towards future trips. The new rules define “non-performance” as canceling or delaying a trip by at least three calendar days. In this scenario passengers are entitled to a full refund of all monies paid, including deposit and any additional fees. The rules apply to any cruise on or after April 18, 2022.