This is a developing story and will be updated as more concrete information is confirmed.
As part of several executive orders issued to combat the surging COVID-19 pandemic, United States President Joe Biden announced mandatory mask mandates for planes and other modes of transportation late this afternoon. Just days after the news broke that all travelers flying to or through the US from abroad (including citizens) must present a negative test result before arrival, there is speculation that passengers will also be required to quarantine as well. It’s not yet clear if this will be compulsory or optional, but further detail is expected in the coming hours.
[UPDATE 5:45pm] Per the complete text of the executive order, international travelers arriving to the United States will not be required to a mandatory quarantine. However, they will be required to comply with CDC guidelines concerning recommended periods of self-quarantine and isolation after a trip abroad.
The executive orders form part of a broader plan by President Biden to combat the pandemic head-on, including a detailed vaccine rollout plan, safe reopening measures for schools and businesses, and greater access to testing.
