U.S. Transportation Secretary Advocates for Civility in Air Travel
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy recently shared a message aimed at travelers: avoid wearing pajamas on planes.
During an appearance at Newark Airport in New Jersey, Duffy expressed concerns about a noticeable decline in civility among air passengers and announced a “civility campaign.” The goal is to promote courteous behavior and patience, especially during the hectic holiday travel season.
He suggested travelers use polite language with flight crews, saying, “Please and thank you go a long way,” and emphasized dressing “with some respect.” Duffy encouraged people to choose outfits like jeans or a nice shirt over more casual attire like slippers or pajamas, believing that it might contribute to a more respectful atmosphere.
“I think wearing something a bit nicer will inspire better behavior overall,” he remarked.
Additionally, Duffy reminded passengers to lend a hand to those struggling with their luggage in overhead compartments, deeming it a simple act of common courtesy.
In a prior interview, Duffy reflected on how enhancing civility could significantly enrich the travel experience for everyone involved.
This initiative comes at a time when in-flight disturbances have surged by 400% since 2019, as reported by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In fact, nearly 20% of flight attendants reported experiencing physical altercations in 2021, and incidents involving unruly passengers remained elevated in 2024 compared to pre-pandemic levels.
Diane Gottesman, an expert in etiquette and the founder of the Texas Protocol School in San Antonio, noted that the issue of appropriate airport attire extends beyond mere fashion—it speaks to courtesy and respect. “Pajamas should be saved for home or hotel settings, not in public places,” she commented, adding that comfort doesn’t preclude choosing practical and suitable clothing for travel.
It’s worth mentioning that some observers attribute the trend of wearing pajamas in airports to celebrity influence, as stars have often been spotted in loungewear, effectively turning terminal spaces into casual lounges.
Jacqueline Whitmore, a former flight attendant and founder of the Protocol School in Palm Beach, underscored the impact of dress on behavior. She explained that how we dress can affect not only our self-perception but also how we treat others. “When you dress with intention, it can boost both confidence and self-esteem,” she said.
Both etiquette experts agree that how we dress while traveling is not about appearing formal or upper-class; it’s about showing respect—to ourselves and to others. “It’s not about status; it’s about the respect we embody,” Gottesman mentioned, while also noting that children might have a bit more leeway when it comes to dressing for travel.
Ultimately, both Duffy and the etiquette specialists are advocating for a return to a more respectful approach to air travel, where the way we present ourselves can, perhaps unexpectedly, enhance the overall experience for everyone involved.
