Because fewer and fewer passengers on board Lufthansa want to comply with the German mask requirement and there are therefore more discussions and verbal conflicts, the crews have been instructed that they no longer have to enforce the wearing of mouth and nose protection.
Just a few weeks ago, passengers - especially with German airlines - could even be kicked out if they refused to wear a mask before take-off. Due to safety concerns, Lufthansa no longer wants to enforce the German mask requirement. The crews have already received instructions to this effect, with the final decision resting with the captain.
Germany holds as one of only a few countries in Europe to be stuck with the mask requirement on board aircraft. Austria will abolish this on June 1, 2022. In particular, passengers who come from countries where there is no obligation to cover their mouth and nose should react with incomprehension to Lufthansa's "mask requirement". According to a report by the news magazine Der Spiegel, which was confirmed by a spokesman for the airline, this is leading to increasing conflicts on board.
For safety reasons, the crews no longer have to enforce the mask requirement, although this is still ordered by the German government. A Lufthansa media officer: "Since safety is a top priority for Lufthansa, the company is adapting its processes".