As daily COVID infection counts continue to fall, the Centre announced on Wednesday that face masks are no longer required for air travel. However, passengers should preferentially use them, it added.
According to the health ministry, the latest decision was made in accordance with the government’s policy of a graded approach to COVID-19 management response.
It also said that any specific reference to fines or penalties should not be included in the in-flight announcements.
Until recently, wearing masks or face covers while flying was required.
According to health ministry data, India reported 501 new coronavirus infections in the last 24 hours, a day after seeing the lowest drop of 474 cases since April 6, 2020.