Latest Face Mask Policy for Every US Airline

Many airlines have started requiring passengers to wear face coverings to slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) and help boost traveler confidence and comfort amid what's become a paramount time for the industry. While some airlines have said that they'll provide masks to any customers who need them travelers should be sure to have one handy as well as be aware of local laws and guidelines before leaving home without one. Here's a breakdown of every major U.S. carrier's updated mask policy heading into the peak summer travel season.

Wearing a face covering will be required for all American Airlines passengers beginning May 11. "You also may be required by local law to wear one in the airport where your trip begins, where it ends or where you connect," the airline states.

Delta Air Lines began requiring that passengers wear face coverings at check-in areas, in lounges, at the gate, on jet bridges and during the flight with the exception of meal service on May 4. Like some other carriers, Delta will provide a mask for customers who forget their own.

As of May 4, United Airlines is requiring that passengers wear a mask during their flight and recommending they adhere to local laws and guidelines in any airport they pass through. Passengers should bring their own mask, however, the airline will provide face coverings to customers who need them.

Low-cost carrier Southwest Airlines "highly encourages" passengers to bring their own hand sanitizer and mask and will require face coverings beginning May 11. Southwest will have masks available for any passengers who forget.

As of May 4, all JetBlue customers are required to wear face masks during check-in, boarding, in-flight and while deplaning. Acceptable coverings include scarves and bandanas in addition to medical masks. Keep in mind that the airline did not say whether it would provide masks for customers who forget.

All Frontier Airlines passengers will be required to wear a face-covering "throughout their journey" starting May 8. The budget carrier has provided a "how-to" guide for customers who need a face mask.

Spirit Airlines will require all passengers to wear face coverings when traveling beginning on May 11. Customers without one will be barred from boarding the plane. If they don't have a mask, the airline recommends travelers make their own mask at home based on the CDC's face cover guidelines.

Allegiant Air recently announced that it will provide complimentary health and safety kits to all customers upon boarding. The kits include a single-use face mask, a pair of disposable non-latex gloves and cleaning wipes. Keep in mind, passengers may be required to wear a face mask in their origin and/or destination airport.

In accordance with the latest CDC guidelines, Alaska Airlines is requiring passengers to wear masks starting on May 11. Passengers are expected to wear their masks inside the airport and for the duration of their flight. The airline will provide additional masks for those who forget.

In addition to maintaining more space between passengers at check-in, boarding and during the flight, Hawaiian Airlines will require passengers to wear face coverings beginning May 8. "We appreciate our guests' understanding and flexibility as we adapt our operations with their wellbeing guiding every decision we make," said the airline's president and CEO Peter Ingram.