If you were thinking about hopping on a Delta flight in the near future only to disobey the airline’s COVID-19 mask mandate midway through your flight, think again. Last Thursday, a Delta flight en route to Atlanta from the Detroit Metro Airport was turned around after two passengers refused to wear face masks, an act that a Delta spokesperson described as “non-compliant” with both crew instructions and the airline’s requirements.
Photo: Alejandro Gonzalez M/Shutterstock
Delta Flight Forced to Turn Around After Passengers Refuse to Wear Masks
Per Delta’s website, both passengers and crew are “required to wear a face mask, or appropriate cloth face covering over their nose and mouth throughout their travel, aligning with the best practice guidelines from the CDC.” The site goes on to clarify that facial shields are not a suitable substitution for face masks, though they may be worn in addition to masks. Guests with medical conditions that preclude them from wearing a mask are required to complete a strict “Clearance-To-Fly” process for every trip they take.
Delta claims to be doing its part to keep its passengers safe and healthy by limiting seating, food and beverage services, and luggage handling. In return, Delta travelers are required to wear face masks before, during, and after their flights, from check-in to the time they disembark. 