Airlines Push To End Federal Mask Mandate

Major airlines are requesting the Biden administration to end federal mask mandates and international predeparture testing requirements. They argue that current data and the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions support this change. The letter, signed by several major airlines, highlights the burden on employees enforcing these mandates. CDC Director Rachelle Willinsky stated that the BA2 variant does not cause more severe disease or evade immunity. The White House recently extended the mask mandate to April 18th, and a response to the airlines' request is awaited.

What did CDC Director Rachelle Willinsky say about the BA2 variant?

What was the new deadline for the federal mask mandate set by the White House?