Transport Secretary Launches Civility Campaign Amid Pope’s Flight

Transport Secretary Sean Duffy has introduced a new campaign focused on air travel etiquette, including behavior and appropriate clothing. This initiative comes as he recently acknowledged Pope Leo XIV, who was traveling to Türkiye and Lebanon, by praising his attire in an X post.

Duffy shared a photo of the Pope on a plane, stating, “This is respectful attire,” as the Pope conversed with others while holding a baseball bat gifted to him that once belonged to Chicago White Sox player Nellie Fox. The images of the Pope caught people’s attention on social media.

Some users reacted to Duffy’s comments. One remarked, “Well played,” while another defended personal comfort, saying, “If I want to wear slippers and pajamas on the plane, I’ll wear them.” A different comment asked, “Is the Pope a baseball fan or did he bless someone’s bat?” indicating a light-hearted discussion.

At Newark Airport recently, Duffy noted a decline in civility among air travelers. He emphasized the need for courtesy and patience, especially during the hectic holiday travel season. His campaign encourages passengers to be considerate, even offering tips about properly handling TSA trash cans.

Duffy’s remarks underscore a desire for kindness among travelers, proposing, “Maybe it’s better not to wear pajamas or slippers on a plane.” This sentiment reflects an ongoing conversation about the norms of air travel in today’s world.

While Duffy’s campaign aims to foster a more civil atmosphere, the varying opinions on dress and behavior aboard planes reveal the complexities of modern travel culture.