Effective from May 11, 2020 until the conclusion of the COVID-19 crisis, all passengers, airport personnel and all personnel of a tenant or a subcontractor are required to wear a face covering that covers the individual's nose and mouth while on airport premises. Exceptions are granted when passengers or employees are eating or drinking, or are alone in offices.
Passengers will be educated and encouraged to abide by the airport’s mask policy by security personnel and airport staff. Many of PHL’s airline partners are providing masks to passengers who may have forgotten or misplaced their face coverings.
The airport is placing graphics on digital screens throughout the public and secure sides of the airport, and will install printed signage in coming days. Digital signage is currently already up on advertising screens within the terminals.
The requirement aligns with existing and ongoing efforts by the airport and its onsite partners to limit the spread of COVID-19 among employees, passengers and the community.
PHL CEO Chellie Cameron issued guidance on April 17 urging airport tenants, including airlines, security and concessions vendors, to implement the Secretary of Health of Pennsylvania's recommended measures when and where practical. Many tenants were already in compliance, while others phased their efforts according to their corporate and organizational roll outs.
Most major airports throughout the United States now have similar orders in effect, and are expected to continue with these protocols until the global crisis has stabilized. Travelers should consult the Centers for Disease Control Guidance on Travel website for helpful information.