United, Other Airlines Will Start Enforcing Passenger Mask Policies

Uh-oh, I can hear the Karens coming already.

United Airlines isn't kidding about their mask policy, so don't test them.

The company announced yesterday that passengers who refuse to comply with their mask policy will be placed on an "internal travel restriction list," a.k.a. a list of shame, starting this Thursday.

via GIPHY

In May, United Airlines announced that passengers on their flights are required to wear masks. The company told USA Today that, "Customers on this list will lose their travel privileges on United for a duration of time to be determined pending a comprehensive incident review."

They also said that their current mask policy will stay in place for at least 60 days. And yes, their employees - including pilots, gate agents, and ramp workers - are required to wear masks, too.

If passengers don't have a mask, they will be provided one. If they still refuse, flight attendants will file a report that will trigger a "formal review."

Southwest, Alaska, Frontier, and JetBlue also have mask requirements for passengers.

Listen - it is what it is. Flying has been a pain in the butt for almost 20 years now, since 9/11. It's expensive and uncomfortable. Let's be honest - you're in a tin can, 35,000 feet above the ground, with the same air circulating throughout the cabin for hours at a time. To be honest, I can't believe that we weren't wearing masks on planes and in airports BEFORE this.

Don't be a Karen - wear a mask. This is temporary.