"The policy directs our safety inspectors and attorneys to take strong enforcement action against any passenger who disrupts or threatens the safety of a flight, with penalties ranging from fines to jail time," FAA administrator Steve Dickson said in a statement. "The number of cases we're seeing is still far too high, and it tells us urgent action continues to be required."

The initial order went into force Jan. 13, a week after airlines reported a wave of disruptive behavior linked to the storming of the U.S. Capitol by supporters of President Donald Trump. It was due to expire at the end of March.

Sneezed on, cussed at, ignored: Airline workers battle mask resistance with scant government backup

The FAA said airlines had reported more than 500 incidents to the agency since late December, mostly involving passengers refusing to wear masks.