Covid face masks no longer mandatory on French open-air ski lifts

Mask-wearing is no longer mandatory on French ski resort chair and drag lifts, the tourism ministry has announced.

In general, people are no longer required to wear masks in the open air, although they are advised to continue wearing masks in ski lift queues.

Masks are still mandatory in enclosed spaces for people aged six and over, so they will need to have their masks ready for cable car lifts or queues which go indoors.

Ski professionals have welcomed the news, with Laurent Reynaud, who represents French ski resorts, telling France Bleu: “It is quite logical when you consider that we are not only outside but also subject to vaccine pass requirements.

“We are happy that the government has looked at the very specific case of open-air ski lifts.

“In the midst of the February holidays it is good to have the guarantee that we will be able to relax controls because the health conditions allow it.”

People over 16 must present their vaccine pass to access ski lifts, and 12 to 15-year-olds must show a health pass. Random checks are taking place in ticket and ski lift queues.

Read more:Checklist: Where are vaccine passes required in France?

Children under 12 do not need to carry any type of pass.

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