Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has taken a firm stance on public comportment by launching an initiative urging travelers to avoid wearing pajamas and slippers on flights and in airports. Speaking at Newark International Airport in New Jersey, Duffy framed his comments as part of a broader ‘civility campaign’ aimed at restoring courtesy and patience during the busy holiday travel season. The campaign comes in response to a 400% increase in in-flight disturbances since 2019, including incidents ranging from disruptive behavior to physical altercations, according to FAA data.
Duffy, who previously expressed concerns about the ‘degradation in civility’ among air travelers, has encouraged passengers to dress with ‘some respect’ and to offer assistance to those struggling with overhead bins. His remarks come as he faces growing public scrutiny over recent spikes in unruly passenger behavior, which have strained relationships between airlines, passengers, and crew members. The initiative has drawn support from etiquette experts like Diane Gottsman and Jacqueline Whitmore, who argue that clothing choices can shape behavior and promote a more respectful environment in shared spaces.
According to recent union and FAA data, nearly one in five flight attendants reported experiencing a physical incident in 2021, with reports of unruly passengers remaining above pre-pandemic levels. The situation has sparked a heated debate over what constitutes appropriate behavior on airplanes, with some attributing the trend to celebrity culture and the influence of high-profile individuals wearing loungewear in public. The ‘civility campaign’ is part of a larger effort to address what Duffy calls a ‘culture of entitlement’ among travelers, which he claims has led to a decline in polite interaction and mutual respect.
Experts argue that while comfort is important, the choice of clothing can significantly impact how individuals perceive themselves and others. Diane Gottsman, a renowned etiquette expert, emphasized that pajamas should be reserved for private spaces, as they are not appropriate for public environments. She suggested that travelers should opt for attire that is both comfortable and respectful, reinforcing the idea that dressing well can lead to better behavior and more considerate interactions in crowded settings.
Jacqueline Whitmore, a former flight attendant and etiquette advocate, echoed this sentiment, noting that the psychological concept of ‘enclothed cognition’ suggests that what we wear can influence our behavior and how others perceive us. While she acknowledged that attire doesn’t necessarily define character, she pointed to a correlation between thoughtful dressing and responsible conduct. Both experts stressed that the ‘civility campaign’ is not about enforcing formality or social status, but rather about fostering a sense of respect and consideration for oneself and others.
Duffy’s initiative, supported by the FAA and industry stakeholders, aims to create a more harmonious travel experience for all passengers. By encouraging a shift away from casual, home-like attire, the campaign hopes to cultivate an environment where courtesy and mutual respect are prioritized, ultimately enhancing the overall air travel experience.