COVID Vaccinations for US Travel
Do I need a COVID vaccine to fly in the US?
Do I need a COVID vaccine to fly domestically in the US?
No. You don't need a COVID-19 vaccine to fly domestic flights in the US. Airlines don't require a COVID vaccine to fly.
As of May 2024, there is no mandate from any airline requiring a COVID vaccination for domestic flights. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) still recommends that everyone be fully vaccinated before travelling. However, you won't need to provide proof of vaccination for domestic flights.
In May 2023, a previous requirement for non-citizen passengers to show proof of vaccination to enter the United States was lifted.
Do I need a COVID vaccine to fly internationally in and out of the US?
No. As of May 2023, a COVID vaccination is no longer required to fly into or out of the United States. This applies to both non-citizen and non-immigrant air passengers as well as US citizens.
Please remember these these are just the regulations for entering and leaving the US. The destination country you're flying to may have their own requirements for entry. These can change frequently, so it's important to check the specific requirements for your destination country close to your travel date.
You can do this by checking the US Department of State's travel advisories website or the official government website of your destination country.
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FAQs
What does 'fully vaccinated' mean?
You’re considered fully vaccinated when at least 2 weeks have passed since completing the full course of your COVID‑19 vaccine.
- Pfizer or Moderna: 2 weeks after your second dose
- Johnson & Johnson (Janssen): 2 weeks after your single shot
Some countries may have their own definition of “fully vaccinated”, especially regarding booster shots, so always check destination requirements.
Will I need a vaccine card or health passport to fly?
It depends on where you're flying to. The United States does not require proof of COVID‑19 vaccination to enter or fly domestically. But some other countries still do, and rules can change quickly.
You can check COVID‑19 entry requirements for your destination on our COVID-19 travel advice page, powered by Sherpa. It’s updated in real-time to help you plan confidently.
Do airlines still block middle seats?
No. Most airlines no longer block middle seats for social distancing. While this was common early in the pandemic, full seating capacity has returned across nearly all major airlines.
If you want more space, some airlines let you purchase an extra seat. but this is optional and not a safety measure.
Are airlines still disinfecting the cabins?
Yes, airlines still clean and disinfect cabins, especially high-touch areas like tray tables, seat belts and lavatories. While the intense, pandemic-era cleaning (like fogging after every flight) has eased, regular sanitation is now part of standard operations.
Some airlines go beyond the basics with deeper cleaning between longer flights or overnight stays. It's all about keeping the cabin safe and comfortable for passengers.
Which airlines have social-distancing measures?
No airline enforces social distancing during flights anymore. The practice of blocking seats was mostly phased out by 2022. However, some airlines may still encourage space at boarding or in airport lounges where feasible.
If distancing is important to you, consider booking a less crowded flight or selecting a seat with extra space.
Do I still need a negative COVID test to fly?
Not for flights within the United States or when entering the US. Testing requirements were removed in 2022. However, some countries still require a negative COVID‑19 test before arrival, especially if you're unvaccinated or coming from a high‑risk region.
Can I fly if I’ve recently recovered from COVID?
Yes, but you should wait until you've completed your recommended isolation period and feel well enough to travel. Some countries may accept proof of recent recovery instead of a vaccine or test result, often called a “certificate of recovery”.
Check whether your destination allows this and what documentation is required.
Is masking still required on flights?
In most cases, no. Mask mandates have been lifted by nearly all major airlines and governments. However, some destinations or airlines may still recommend or require masks, especially on international routes or during seasonal illness spikes.
If you prefer to wear a mask while flying, you're welcome to do so. It’s always worth checking the latest guidance before your trip.