On May 4, JetBlue will require all passengers to wear a mask or face covering during check-in, boarding, on their flight and when deplaning.
"This is the new flying etiquette," according to JetBlue president and COO Joanna Geraghty. "Onboard, cabin air is well circulated and cleaned through filters every few minutes, but this is a shared space where we have to be considerate of others."
JetBlue is basing its policies on U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, which specify a face covering as something that covers the mouth and nose, is secured with ties or ear loops, fits snugly on the face and allows for unrestricted breathing. JetBlue will remind passengers of the requirement prior to flights by email. Small children will be exempt from the requirement.
JetBlue is the first U.S. carrier to require passengers to wear masks, though other carriers are recommending it. JetBlue already had required its employees to wear face coverings during flight, as have United, Delta and American.