Masks are now optional at Orlando International Airport, spokesperson says

ORLANDO, Fla. - Passengers are no longer required to wear masks at Orlando International Airport and Orlanfo Sanford International Airport, joining Tampa International Airport and others after a judge ruled against the national mandate on Monday.

Masks are now optional at those locations.

Shortly after the ruling on Monday, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority said travelers should "anticipate" wearing masks for the time being and that the airport was awaiting further direction from the federal government.

Late Monday, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration said in a statement that it would "no longer enforce…requiring mask use on public transportation and transportation hubs."

Tampa International Airport moved to make masks optional Monday night, effective immediately, as did some other airports and airlines across the country.

The CDC continues to recommend that people wear masks on mass transit, especially when indoors.

"Generally it feels quite good to be able to travel more freely," said Alastair McKenzie, who traveled through Orlando airport without masks on Tuesday, en route to London.

"When it’s hot and we have to get the border patrol it can be stuffy wearing a mask and be quite frustrating so it feels quite good," said McKenzie.

For others, they told FOX 35 they will continue to wear masks.

"I often forget that I have a mask on my face wear for hours until I eat something," said Mark Weimer, who was traveling with his daughter after a trip to Disney World.
 

His family doesn't see wearing a mask as a bother and will continue to wear masks when they travel, out of respect for others, he said.

"If we ever get a cold or anything especially at this time, still for me and my family it’s the most respectful thing I can do for everyone else," he said.

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