Editor's note: This gallery contains a disturbing image. Viewer discretion is advised.
For over a year now, travelers in the United States were required by law to wear face masks on airplanes and other public transportation.
But the Biden administration's mask mandate, which was intended to mitigate the threat of Covid-19, was struck down by a federal judge on Monday.
Some passengers learned of the decision just moments before takeoff. Some were told while in flight. The abrupt change prompted excitement and confusion.
The Justice Department has appealed the ruling, following a recommendation by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. White House press secretary Jen Psaki said the appeal was important for preserving the CDC's future public health authority.
Here are some of the stories that made headlines over the past week, as well as some photos that caught our eye.
