Masks: Newark Airport's Current Covid-19 Safety Protocol

As of April 2022, masks were mandatory in all public areas of Newark Liberty International Airport. However, a federal judge vacated the CDC's mask mandate for public transportation in the same month, and the TSA announced it would no longer enforce the national mask requirement. Despite this, some airports, including New York's JFK and LaGuardia, continued to enforce mask use. It is unclear whether Newark Airport continued to enforce mask use following the TSA's announcement. One source from July 2020 states that masks are mandatory, but this is prior to the TSA's announcement. Another source from September 2024 suggests that masks are not required at security, but it is unclear whether this is specific to Newark Airport.

Masks must be removed for identification and security checks

For identification purposes, briefly lowering your mask for a second is usually sufficient. You can politely explain that you prefer to keep your mask on as much as possible and ask if there are other options for identification.

In the case of security checks, some travellers have reported being asked to remove their masks, place them in a bin, and go through the scanner without their mask on. This is not an official TSA policy and seems to be an isolated incident. If you encounter this situation, you can choose to wait for a supervisor, as some travellers have reported being waved through after refusing to comply.

It is important to remember that you have the right to opt out of facial recognition technology used by the TSA. They are required to provide signage at their facial recognition checkpoints to inform travellers that participation is optional. Knowing your rights and being prepared can help you navigate these situations with confidence.

Travellers with disabilities or medical conditions may have additional rights and protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). It is worth looking into these protections if you have a disability or medical condition that requires you to wear a mask.

Overall, while brief mask removal may be necessary for identification and security checks, it is not a widespread requirement to remove masks for an extended period during security checks. Knowing your rights and politely advocating for yourself can help ensure your comfort and safety during air travel.

Masks are mandatory in all public areas of the airport

Masks are mandatory in all public areas of Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). This means that you must wear a mask at all times when you are in the airport, except when eating or drinking. The requirement to wear a mask starts as soon as you enter the airport terminal and will continue until you exit the airport at your destination.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which operates the airport, has implemented this measure to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. The airport also has vending machines that sell hand sanitizer and other hygiene products, as well as floor mats that disinfect the soles of your shoes. These measures are part of the airport's commitment to maximizing hygiene and minimizing contact, access, and dwell time.

In addition to the mask requirement, the airport has also limited access to ticketed passengers, employees, and those conducting business in the terminal. There are also enhanced cleaning protocols in place, with frequent sanitization of high-touch surfaces such as check-in kiosks and concessions spaces.

It is important to note that the mask requirement may vary depending on your airline. Some airlines may require you to wear a mask for the duration of your flight, while others may not enforce it. It is recommended that you check with your airline and the Port Authority's website for the most up-to-date information before you travel.

While the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) no longer enforces a mask mandate at airports or on flights, local rules may still require face coverings in certain areas. It is always a good idea to have a mask with you when traveling, as requirements can change quickly.

Masks can be purchased from vending machines at the airport

If you're travelling through an airport and need to purchase a mask, there's no need to panic. Many airports have vending machines that sell masks, so you can easily buy one if you need to.

For example, Denver International Airport has vending machines that offer disposable and KN95 face masks, as well as sanitising wipes. Las Vegas' McCarran International Airport also has vending machines that sell personal protective equipment, including highly coveted N95 masks, reusable cloth masks, and 3-packs of disposable masks.

These vending machines are a convenient way to ensure you have the necessary protection while travelling. They don't take up a lot of space and can offer a variety of essential items that travellers may need. So, if you're ever in a pinch and need a mask, keep an eye out for these vending machines at the airport.

The availability of masks at airports through vending machines is a great way to provide easy access to protective gear for travellers, ensuring a safe and healthy journey for all.

Travellers from out of state must self-quarantine for 14 days if they come from a high-risk area

If you're travelling to Newark Airport from out of state, it's important to be aware of the self-quarantine requirements for travellers from high-risk areas. Here are some detailed and direct instructions for travellers to follow:

Firstly, identify whether your state is considered high-risk. As of July 1, 2020, Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker has exempted travellers from seven Northeast states (New York, New Jersey, and the other five New England states) from the self-quarantine requirement due to their progress in battling the coronavirus. However, this information can change, so it's crucial to check for updates before your travel.

If you are travelling from a high-risk area, you must self-quarantine for 14 days upon your arrival in Massachusetts. This means staying at home or in your accommodation and avoiding contact with others as much as possible. You should not go to public places or come into close contact with people who did not travel with you. It is recommended to use delivery services or get help from friends to buy groceries or other essential items. If you must leave your quarantine location for essential reasons, such as medical care, wear a mask and maintain a distance of at least six feet from others.

During your self-quarantine period, monitor yourself closely for any symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing. If you develop symptoms or test positive for COVID-19, isolate yourself and follow public health recommendations. Contact the local health department and inform them of your recent travel and symptoms.

If you are travelling from a state with a positivity rate of 5% or higher, you may be required to either quarantine for 14 days or receive a negative COVID-19 test result within a few days of your arrival, depending on the specific state guidelines. For example, Rhode Island and Maine have implemented similar rules.

Please note that there are no fines or penalties for not complying with the self-quarantine guidelines in Massachusetts as of July 1, 2020. However, other states may have different rules and attach hefty fines for non-compliance. Always check the latest travel advisories and guidelines for both your departure and arrival states before your trip.

Masks must be removed for several minutes when going through the security scanner

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not require masks to be removed when going through security. Masks are only required to be removed momentarily for identification. According to the TSA website, "TSA Cares is a helpline that provides travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, and other special circumstances additional assistance during the security screening process."

A travel blogger shared their approach to masking while flying, which includes wearing a mask during the highest risk phases of travel, such as at airports when in crowded spaces or during boarding and deplaning. They do not generally wear a mask if they are in an airport and it is not terribly crowded or when seated with ample personal space on an airplane.

A content creator and wife of a pilot also shared some clothing items travelers should never wear when going through airport security, which includes having a shirt or sweater wrapped around your waist and wearing sequins.

Frequently asked questions