Wearing a mask at Orlando International Airport was already mandatory prior to a federal directive from the Biden Administration when Orlando International enforced city and county executive orders directing all airport staff and passengers to wear a mask at all times when in public areas. The new federal mandate supersedes these orders.
“The mask mandate is new to many airports but not Orlando International. We will continue to strongly encourage the public and staff to always wear a mask while at the airport,” says Brian Gilliam, Director of Security for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. “If they do not comply, law enforcement may be called in and the individual may face federal penalties and be asked to leave the building.”
Reinforcing the mask message, travelers will see updated signage around the airport, both inside and on roadways leading into the property. Passengers will also notice new audio terminal messages reminding them that mask-wearing is mandatory and is a federal order.
There are three exemptions that apply:
- Children under the age of 2
- People with disabilities who cannot wear a mask or cannot safely wear a mask because of the disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act
People for whom wearing a mask would create a risk to workplace health, safety, or job duty as determined by the relevant workplace safety guidelines or federal requirements
A mask, by federal definition, is considered a material covering both the nose and mouth. Face shields are not acceptable. To further assist passengers who may have lost or forgotten their masks, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) vending machines are placed throughout the terminal. There, travelers may purchase masks, hand sanitizer, and gloves for the next phase of their journey.
