Threats over face masks on flight could result in penalties of up to $35K

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – Airline passengers who are upset over the mandated use of face masks and who disrupt a flight with threatening behavior could face a civil penalty of up to $35,000.

Airlines are getting strict and the Federal Aviation Administration is also getting tougher on unruly passengers who refuse to wear a face mask during the coronavirus pandemic.

No more warnings. First strike and you are out. FAA officials said unruly passengers’ behavior is dangerous because it distracts crew members from their other safety functions.

The FAA’s zero tolerance policy will be in effect through the end of March.

FAA administrator’s full statement


About the Authors:

Christian De La Rosa joined Local 10 News in April 2017 after spending time as a reporter and anchor in Atlanta, San Diego, Orlando and Panama City Beach.

The Emmy Award-winning journalist joined the Local 10 News team in 2013. She wrote for the Miami Herald for more than 9 years and won a Green Eyeshade Award.