For EU air travel, the Covid mask rules have been loosened.

According to recent government instructions, face masks will no longer be required to be worn on flights and in airports in EU countries starting next Monday.

According to the EU Aviation Safety Agency, the decision is in keeping with changing anti-Covid measures on public transportation across Europe (Easa).

France, Italy, and Bulgaria have all reduced their regulations.

After a federal judge struck down the government's mask rule in April, some US airlines followed suit.

"Face masks will no longer be required in all circumstances of air travel from next week, largely coinciding with evolving regulations of national authorities across Europe for public transportation," EASA executive director Patrick Ky stated.

"It's a relief to all of us that we've now arrived at a point in the pandemic when we can begin to relax the health safety measures," he continued.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, however, issued some cautionary advice with the new guidance (ECDC).

Although masks will no longer be required, ECDC head Andrea Ammon said it was crucial to remember that "together with physical distance and basic hand cleanliness, it is one of the best strategies of minimizing transmission."

Both EU agencies stated that airlines should encourage customers to wear masks on flights coming or departing from regions where masks are still required for public transportation.

"Further, as of May 16, 2022, aircraft operators shall continue to encourage their passengers and staff members to wear face masks during the flight as well as in the airport, even if it is not needed," the ECDC added.