Masks may not be required on your next Ryanair flight.

Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary has indicated that he would like to see the requirement dropped by spring 2022, telling reporters that passengers may be permitted to fly without a mask by the end of April.

While no decision has been made just yet, the airline has begun talks with its staff as it attempts to navigate the next steps.

This week Newcastle-based budget airline Jet2 became the first to remove the requirement for face coverings on its flights from England and Northern Ireland. While masks are not mandatory, they are still advised

A Jet2 spokesperson said: “It is no longer a legal requirement to wear a face mask in England and Northern Ireland, including at our airports or on board our aircraft.

“However, as per UK Government guidance, we recommend that customers continue to wear a face mask in these spaces, and we remind customers that they will need to wear one when they get to their overseas destination.”

As of Monday, masks are no longer required in any public or retail settings or in schools in Ireland. However, experts agree that wearing a disposable surgical mask is a good idea if you’re going to be in a crowded area to avoid catching the virus.