Originally Posted by
lhrsfo
AFAIK, onboard the plane when the engines are running (so as to take advantage of the aggressive air filtration and renewal systems) is safest. Otherwise, crowded gate areas are not great, but crowded lounges are worse as most people won't be wearing a mask.
Regarding the airline lounge... also depends which jurisdiction it is in. For example in Canada, one must wear a mask inside an airline lounge (most jurisdictions in Canada treat airline lounges as a "food service establishment", or similar, and do not fall under the authority of the airport authority in that regard). Some also require proof of vaccination to enter, similar to local establishment rules/laws.