The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) is advising its members to remain alert on a number of changing policies surrounding international travel and vaccine mandates. These include the lifting of travel restrictions on November 8 for fully vaccinated international visitors. Proof of vaccination will be required to enter the U.S. NATA noted it anticipates further guidance to be forthcoming on accepted vaccination and any potential exemptions from the requirement.
In addition, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) last week released a draft emergency temporary standard (ETS) covering upcoming requirements for private companies with more than 100 employees to ensure all are vaccinated or tested weekly. According to NATA, the enforcement timeline is still unclear but could take effect as early as December 1.
NATA is recording a question-and-answer session with Alison Squiccimarro of the Law Offices of Paul Lange to help members prepare for this mandate and expects to release the resource shortly.
Meanwhile, the Canadian government is requiring all air passengers departing from airports in the country to be vaccinated, effective October 30. Further, all employers in the federally regulated air transportation sector must establish vaccine requirements. NATA additionally is awaiting further guidance on whether there will be exceptions for non-Canadian-based flight crews.