The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) recommend relaxation of sanitary measures and more specifically the use of masks, both at airports and in flight.
In particular, the ECDC and EASA, in a joint statement, abolish the recommendation for mandatory use of medical masks at airports and flights, while noting that the mask is still one of the best precautions against the transmission of COVID-19.
The new recommendation is valid from today, May 16th.
What will companies do
However, it should be noted that the rules specifically for masks will continue to differ depending on the airline. For example, companies flying to or from a destination where masking on public transport is still required should continue to encourage its use.
It is also emphasized that at-risk passengers should continue to wear a face mask regardless of the rules, ideally a FFP2 / N95 / KN95 mask that offers a higher level of protection than a standard surgical mask.
In addition to the changes to the masks, the recommendations include relaxation of stricter measures for aviation activities, which will help alleviate the burden on the industry, while maintaining appropriate measures.
Dangers still exist
A few days ago, ECDC Director Andrea Amon said, “Although there are still risks, we have seen that non-pharmacological interventions and vaccines have allowed our lives to begin to return to normal. While the mandatory use of a mask in all cases is no longer recommended, it is important to keep in mind that, along with physical distance and good hand hygiene, it is one of the best methods of reducing transmission. The rules and requirements of the countries of departure and destination should be consistently observed and enforced and travel operators should ensure that passengers are informed in a timely manner of any measures required. “The importance of these measures should continue to be effectively communicated to passengers for their safety, and the ECDC will continue to work with our EASA colleagues to regularly evaluate and amend recommendations as necessary.”
For his part, EASA Executive Director Patrick Key noted a few days ago that “from next week the masks will no longer have to be mandatory on air travel in all cases, in general alignment with the changing requirements of national authorities across Europe for public transport “adding that” for passengers and crews, this is a big step forward in smoothing air travel. However, passengers should behave responsibly and respect the choices of others around them. “A passenger who coughs and sneezes should consider wearing a face mask to reassure those sitting nearby.”
The update of this common protocol takes into account the latest developments in the pandemic, in particular vaccination levels and naturally acquired immunity, as well as the accompanying lifting of restrictions in a growing number of European countries.
Latest News
Number of Turkish Visitors to Greek Islands up 10-Fold After 7-Day Express Visa
More than 20,000 Turkish tourists flocked to the eastern Aegean isles during a nine-day religious period in the neighboring country
Greece to Protect 198 ‘Untouchable Beaches’
These beaches, numbering 198 across the country, fall within the Natura 2000 network and will be off-limits for concession and, by extension, for the placement of umbrellas, sunbeds, etc.
BoG: Feb. Current Account Deficit up by 1.8bln
At current prices, exports dropped by 10.3% (‑10.7% at constant prices) and imports grew by 5.7% (9.4% at constant prices).
Greece Becoming a ‘Refuge’ for German Pensioners
The government's policies to attract foreign property buyers to boot the economy is working, reports German newspaper Handelsblatt
Iran Activates Air Defense System- Reports of Attack by Israel
An Iranian official said explosions reported by Iran's media were the result of the activation of the country's air defense system, yet media reports attribute them to a drone attack by Israel
Poll: Greeks, EU Citizens Eager to Vote in European Elections
EU citizens are eager to vote in the upcoming elections for the European Parliament in June, with eight in 10 saying the current geopolitical situation makes voting imperative
Mitsotakis-Erdogan Meeting in Ankara Fixed for May 13
The Greek PM himself made the announcement from Brussels on Thursday, while he also responded to a question on Athens' intent to create a marine park in the central Aegean, an environmental initiative
Greece Aims to Boost Energy Capacity, Economy with Offshore Wind Farms
Greece’s Energy Ministry is pushing legislation to accelerate the construction of the first floating wind farms in Greek seas
Reuters: Greek Economy Surges After Decade of Pain
Nevertheless, the article also highlights some of the challenges facing the country, with a falling birthrate and labor shortages posing a threat to the long-term outlook
IMF: Greek Growth in 2024 at 2%; Debt to Ease to 158.8% of GDP This Year
Projected consumer prices are forecast to rise by 2.7%