Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy recently suggested that the air travel experience could be significantly enhanced if Americans stopped wearing pajamas to the airport. As the holiday travel season approaches, Duffy stressed the need for civility in airports, advocating for better attire among travelers and encouraging an overall more positive atmosphere.
Duffy’s comments came in light of ongoing flight delays attributed to staffing shortages from the recent government shutdown. He emphasized that the “Golden Age of transportation” starts with the actions of travelers themselves. This includes dressing appropriately, maintaining a positive attitude, and being courteous to fellow passengers and airline staff.
During a Fox Business interview, Duffy highlighted several issues affecting travel, such as physical altercations at baggage claims and increased incidents of unruly behavior on flights. He advised travelers to dress up and extend kindness to others during the busy season.
According to AAA, roughly 6 million Americans are expected to travel by air during the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, a slight increase from the previous year, although potential flight alterations may arise due to recent cancellations.
Duffy reiterated his message in a video on social media, calling for a return to manners and courtesy in air travel. He urged travelers to reflect on their behavior, whether it’s helping others with their luggage or expressing gratitude to airline crew members.
However, some observers, including U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren, questioned Duffy’s focus on dress code rather than addressing more pressing problems within the airline industry, like flight delays, air traffic control issues, and outdated infrastructure. Warren noted that changes implemented by the Trump administration had eliminated passenger compensation for delayed flights, a move she argued would improve overall passenger sentiments.