Face masks are now optional on planes and in airports, airlines say

Travelers are no longer required to wear face masks while in airports and onboard aircraft, Los Angeles International Airport and major airlines announced Monday.

"Due to a judicial decision in our federal court system, the mask mandate has been overturned, which means our guests and employees have the option to wear a mask while traveling in the U.S. and at work," the airline said.

Max Tidwell, VP of safety & security at Alaska Airlines, released a statement Monday saying, "It has been a long 24 months with nearly constant change. I could not be prouder of our frontline employees who have handled every pivot focusing on safety and the care we're known for. We're also thankful for our guests who remained considerate, patient and stood by us throughout every twist and turn." 

United Airlines also announced it would be dropping its mask mandate for domestic flights and select international flights.

"Masks are no longer required on domestic flights, select international flights (dependent upon the arrival country's requirements) or at U.S. airports. More comfortable keeping yours on? Go right ahead… the choice is yours (you look dino-mite either way)," the airline said.

Delta Airlines joined others in announcing the updated guidelines saying, "Effective immediately, masks are optional for all airport employees, crew members and customers inside U.S. airports and onboard aircraft, as well as on most international flights."

Delta said employees and customers can continue to wear masks if they choose to.

American Airlines will also no longer require face masks saying, "American Airlines has prioritized the health and safety of its team members and customers throughout the pandemic and has supported the federal government's measures to slow the spread of COVID-19." 

"In accordance with the Transportation Security Administration no longer enforcing the federal face mask mandate, face masks will no longer be required for our customers and team members at U.S. airports and on domestic flights."

The move came after the Biden Administration announced that the TSA will no longer enforce the federal mandate requiring masks in all U.S. airports and onboard aircraft following a ruling by a U.S. district court judge.  

"I think it's about time, for sure," said passenger Erica Garza.

Travelers were still masked up at LAX Monday, but then again it's still early. Some travelers were relieved when CBSLA's Jake Reiner broke the news to them.

"I think it's time to move forward," said Erik Valdez

Valdez said even he wasn't ready to fully be mask free.

"Honestly, I think I'm going to wear my mask when I get on the plane, but I'm not going to wear it until I get there," he said.

As far as buses & trains go, the Orange County Transportation Authority, L.A. Metro and Metrolink all said they will still require masks - something Mitra Adams wholeheartedly agrees with.

"I think it's really a responsible thing to do to wear your mask, especially when traveling," Adams said.

She's flying home to Denver and says she expects a 50-50 split of masks to no masks on her flight.

"This one-way masking is better than nothing and I'm going with that," Adams said.

Even if the TSA is no longer required to enforce it, the federal mask manded was extended by the CDC until May 3.

The mask mandate has been in effect for over two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.