Alaska senator drives, takes ferry in 2-day trip to work after airline suspension over mask policy
By Becky Bohrer
The CDC cleared domestic travel for fully vaccinated people, while still advising mask-wearing.
JUNEAU, Alaska - Alaska state Sen. Lora Reinbold drove through part of Canada and took a ferry to reach the state s capital over the weekend after Alaska Airlines suspended her from its flights for what it called her continued refusal to comply with employee instruction regarding the current mask policy.
Reinbold on Monday described the two-day trip as smooth yet adventuresome, saying she saw caribou and whales. She also said she had a new appreciation for the state ferry system.
Alaska Airlines has banned an Alaska state senator for refusing to follow mask requirements.
“We have notified Senator Lora Reinbold that she is not permitted to fly with us for her continued refusal to comply with employee instruction regarding the current mask policy,” spokesman Tim Thompson told the Anchorage Daily News on Saturday, adding that the suspension was effective immediately.
Reinbold, a Republican of Eagle River, said she had not been notified of a ban and that she hoped to be on an Alaska Airlines flight in the near future.
Last week, Reinbold was recorded in Juneau International Airport arguing with Alaska Airlines staff about mask policies. A video posted to social media appears to show airline staff telling Reinbold her mask must cover her nose and mouth.
First Published: 1:28 PM PDT, April 27, 2021
Alaska Airlines said it had suspended State Senator Lora Reinbold from flying because she refused to comply with its mask rules.
An Alaska Senator is temporarily suspended from traveling on Alaska Airlines flights for allegedly violating its mask policies, the company announced.
Senator Lora Reinbold (R-AK) was captured on camera talking to employees and a police officer at Juneau International Airport after she was apparently not wearing her mask properly.
Reinbold, who was on her way to the state Capitol in Juneau to vote in opposition to a piece of legislation, insisted that her mask was covering her nose but an airline employee insisted that it was not.
Video emerges of moment that got Alaska senator Lora Reinbold banned from airline over mask policy independent.co.uk - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from independent.co.uk Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.