US Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy sparked controversy after commenting on what he considers ‘disrespectful’ clothing for air travel.
Most Americans opt for comfort when dressing for a flight, a choice that many would find understandable. Comfort is especially important on long journeys.
On budget airlines, known for less comfortable seating, wearing jeans and a shirt could add to the discomfort experienced during the flight.
However, Sean P. Duffy, the Transportation Secretary, suggests a shift away from wearing joggers and oversized sweatshirts when flying.
“Whether it’s a pair of jeans and a decent shirt, I would encourage people to maybe dress a little better, which encourages us to maybe behave a little better. Let’s try not to wear slippers and pajamas as we come to the airport,” Duffy remarked in anticipation of the busy Thanksgiving travel season.
Duffy made these comments following the launch of ‘The Golden Age of Travel Starts with You’, a new initiative the government hopes will ‘inspire return to civility and address the record surge in unruly passengers disrupting travel for millions of Americans.’
A Department of Transportation press release stated: “The campaign is intended to jumpstart a nationwide conversation around how we can all restore courtesy and class to air travel.
“This won’t just make the travel experience better for the flying public – it will ensure the safety of passengers, gate workers, flight attendants, and pilots.”
The Independent reports that the Department of Transportation has cited a 400 percent increase in in-flight disturbances, with 13,800 incidents involving aggressive passengers since 2021.
In a video showcasing questionable behavior on airplanes, Duffy advocates for the return of ‘civility and manners,’ noting: “There’s no question we’ve lost sight of what makes travel fun – the excitement, the relaxation, the cordial conversations. Americans already feel divided and stressed.
“We can all do our part to bring back civility, manners, and common sense. When we can unite around shared values, we can feel more connected as a country.”
The reaction on social media has been swift, following a news clip on X showing Duffy’s comments about the campaign: “It honors our country … don’t take your shoes off and put your feet on the chair ahead of you.”
One critic responded: “I’m definitely wearing pyjamas now. Even on business trips,” while another commented: “I don’t want or need my government telling me how to dress. Fix real problems!”
Another user added: “No. Going through security is a nightmare. I’m not going to get dressed, so I can get undressed there and dressed back again before I get on the plane.
“Dressing down is a courtesy to those around us. Keeps the security line moving faster.”
Some, however, supported the initiative, with one social media user writing: “If an airline instituted a dress code I’d probably fly them more often than others.”
Another person questioned: “Restaurants, stores, and workplaces have dress codes. Why not airlines?”