It has become mandatory nationwide to wear a mask in airport terminals as part of the fight against the spread of COVID-19 directed by the National Cabinet.

Last week the NSW public health order related to mandatory face coverings was amended to include their use indoors at airports and on domestic commercial aircraft as of January 12.

This includes the Parkes Regional Airport.

Councils which own and operate airports have made arrangements to comply.

"The new National Cabinet requirements to make facemasks compulsory across all parts of the aviation sector, including Parkes Airport, is a necessary one," Airport Development Committee chair Councillor Alan Ward said.

"Anyone entering the terminal at Parkes Airport must now wear a mask, including those who are not catching a flight.

"I believe it is important local government works cooperatively with the aviation sector and higher levels of government to ensure the Parkes Airport terminal is safe.

"This proactive approach will help to reduce the risk of the virus spreading in our community."

For any traveller who forgets to bring a mask with them, Cr Ward said free masks will be available at the terminal.

"This is just one of several preventative measures we have in place to protect our staff, our community and travellers who are visiting the terminal," he said.

The Australian Airports Association (AAA) has welcomed the National Cabinet's decision, describing it as a sensible and common sense approach.

REX Airlines - which is based out of Parkes - too has offered its full support of the decision to make face masks mandatory on all Australian domestic and international flights.

"All travellers should arrive at the airport prepared with their own mask," AAA Chief Executive James Goodwin said.

"Airports have been and will continue to assist governments and the nation during the pandemic despite significant drops in revenue.

"We want passengers travelling through airports to feel safe. Wearing a mask for the traveller's own safety and the safety of others, should become second nature."

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