New Delhi: The civil aviation ministry on Wednesday said the use of masks is not compulsory during air travel. The ministry, however, added that passengers should preferably use them in view of the coronavirus.

Till now, the use of masks or face covers while travelling on flights was mandatory.

In a communication to the scheduled airlines, the ministry said the latest decision has been taken in line with the government’s policy of a graded approach to COVID-19 management response, as reported by news agency PTI.

“… the in-flight announcements henceforth may only mention that in view of the threat posed by COVID-19, all passengers should preferably use mask/face covers,” the communication said.

It also said that any specific reference to fine/penal action need not be announced as part of the in-flight announcements.

As per the health ministry data, India in the last 24 hours reported 501 new coronavirus infections, a day after seeing the lowest drop of 474 cases since 6 April 2020.