Long Island MacArthur Airport Partially Reverses No-Mask Decision

RONKONKOMA, NY — After briefly eliminating all mask mandates, Long Island MacArthur Airport has reinstated masks, but only in certain areas of the airport. Last Tuesday, Town of Islip officials announced that travelers to Long Island's airport would no longer need to wear masks after a federal judge ruled against the national transportation mask mandate.

On Wednesday, however, airport officials changed course, announcing that masks would be required in the baggage claim and ticketing areas.

According to a Town of Islip spokesperson:

“Long Island Mac Arthur Airport officials have been contacted by the Governor’s office and provided with guidance which requires that masks be worn in areas controlled by the airport, specifically, baggage claim and ticketing areas. The state has not yet identified an enforcement agency which until now, had been the TSA, however, the airport will support the state’s regulations. We apologize to the traveling public for any inconvenience or confusion.”

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, who run Kennedy and LaGuardia airports, will requires masks in all public areas, according to the New York Times.