Airports And Vaccine Mandates: What You Need To Know

As of January 2025, airports are not requiring proof of vaccination for passengers on domestic flights within the United States. However, when travelling abroad, some countries do require proof of vaccination before entry. For example, France and Denmark mandate that visitors from the United States show their vaccination cards. The U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) also requires non-U.S. citizens flying into the country to provide proof of vaccination.

Non-US citizens must provide proof of vaccination to enter the US

As of November 8, 2023, non-US citizens who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 can enter the country via land ports of entry (POE) and ferry terminals. This was confirmed by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in a statement, which also emphasised the country's commitment to "easing travel restrictions at [its] borders in a manner that strengthens [its] economy and protects the health and safety of the American public".

According to the DHS, non-citizens who are fully vaccinated can enter the US, but they must provide proof of their vaccination status, as outlined on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website, and state their reason for travel. The CDC requires all passengers flying to the US to provide their contact information within 72 hours of departure. This information may be used to follow up with passengers exposed to a contagious disease during travel.

US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will also share additional information about certain steps eligible travellers need to take to enter the country under the new regulation. Any non-citizen attempting to enter the US through illegal means or without appropriate documentation may be subject to deportation.

It is important to note that travel restrictions within the US began in March 2020 to prevent the spread of COVID-19. During this time, travel was limited at land POEs along the US's northern and southern borders unless it was essential, including travel for lawful trade, emergency response, and public health purposes.

When travelling internationally, it is always a good idea to check the latest guidance from official sources, such as government departments, to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.

Airlines don't require proof of vaccination for boarding

While some countries and airlines have implemented vaccination requirements for international travel, it is important to note that as of January 2025, proof of vaccination is not universally required by airlines for boarding flights. This means that travellers may not need to provide vaccination status or records when checking in or boarding their flights.

In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, several airlines and countries initially considered or implemented proof of vaccination requirements for travel. For example, Qantas announced in November 2020 that they would ask for proof of COVID-19 vaccination from international travellers, and the Australian government supported this "no jab, no fly" policy. Additionally, airlines such as United Airlines, Lufthansa, Virgin Atlantic, Swiss International Airlines, and JetBlue introduced the CommonPass app, which showed passengers' COVID-19 test results and was designed to include vaccination results in the future.

However, other airlines chose not to implement mandatory vaccination requirements. For instance, Brussels Airlines and Lufthansa stated that they had no plans to require passengers to present proof of vaccination before boarding. Similarly, Ryanair announced it would not require proof of vaccination for air travel within the EU, and EasyJet stated it would not require any proof of vaccination at all.

It is worth noting that while some airlines and countries may not require proof of vaccination for boarding, travellers are still responsible for ensuring they meet the entry requirements of their destination, which may include vaccination status, negative COVID-19 test results, or other relevant documentation. These requirements can vary by country and are subject to change, so it is essential for travellers to stay informed about the specific requirements of their intended destinations.

Vaccines are not required for domestic US flights

As of January 2025, vaccines are not required for passengers on domestic flights in the US. While the CDC urges everyone to delay travel until they are fully vaccinated, no airline is currently mandating vaccination for passengers.

However, masks are mandated for all forms of public transportation, including airplanes and inside transit facilities such as airports. The CDC also recommends taking shorter trips with members of your household or family, and if flying, to book a flight with little to no stops or layovers, as airports pose a higher risk of transmission than being on a plane.

For international flights to the US, a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery is required. As of January 2023, non-US citizens and nonimmigrants must present proof of vaccination or documentation proving they are exempt from taking the vaccine. This mandate is issued by the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and is in place to limit the risk of introducing, transmitting, and spreading COVID-19 and its variants in the US.

Airlines have implemented mandatory vaccination policies for employees

While airlines are not requiring passengers to provide proof of vaccination, they have implemented mandatory vaccination policies for their employees. All major U.S. airlines, except Delta, have made COVID-19 vaccination mandatory for their entire workforce. American, Southwest, JetBlue, and Alaska Airlines have informed their staff that they must be vaccinated against COVID-19, in accordance with the Biden administration's federal contractor rules. United Airlines has reported that over 96% of its staff has been vaccinated since they implemented a company-wide vaccine mandate in August.

The Allied Pilots Association has raised concerns about the government-issued mandate, especially with the holiday travel season approaching. They worry that paid sick leave and termination for non-compliance with the mandate may cause a shortage of pilots and other staff. Delta Airlines is the only major airline that has not implemented a vaccine mandate for its employees. A Delta representative stated that their process for encouraging vaccination has been successful, with an 85% workforce vaccination rate as of October.

While some employers have implemented mandatory vaccination policies, they are not legally required to do so. However, employers have a duty to keep their employees safe, and COVID-19 mitigation strategies are part of ensuring a safe workplace. Employers who fire unvaccinated employees may risk various legal claims. A private business that fires an unvaccinated employee may be liable for termination without cause, severance and termination pay, and wrongful dismissal. Unvaccinated employees may also make claims based on their religious beliefs or human rights.

To balance employee rights and workplace safety, some employers have implemented alternative policies. For example, requiring unvaccinated employees to undergo rapid COVID-19 testing and wear masks can help fight the spread of COVID-19 while respecting the rights of those who choose not to vaccinate.

US airports recommend carrying proof of vaccination

While US airports do not require proof of vaccination for domestic travel, it is recommended that you carry proof of vaccination when travelling. This is because certain countries may require proof of vaccination for entry, and you will need to present this to airport officials before collecting your checked bags.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you check the vaccination requirements of your destination country, as well as any countries you are passing through. The CDC also requires all passengers flying to the US to provide their contact information within 72 hours of departure. This information may be used by public health officials to follow up with passengers who may have been exposed to a contagious disease during travel.

In addition to vaccination requirements, some countries may have other entry requirements, such as proof of return travel, a visiting address, or sufficient funds for your stay. It is important to check the specific requirements of your destination country and any countries you will be passing through.

It is also recommended that you carry a copy of your official immunization records with you when you travel. This will ensure that you have the necessary documentation if proof of vaccination is required.

By following these recommendations, you can help ensure a smooth travel experience and avoid any issues or delays during your trip.

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