Why The Transportation Department Wants You To Dress ‘With Respect’ At The Airport
Air travel has become a battleground of bad behavior, and now the government is stepping in with an unusual request. The Transportation Department’s latest campaign isn’t about safety regulations or baggage fees. Instead, they’re asking something surprisingly simple: dress with respect and bring back basic manners to flying.
The timing isn’t coincidental. With holiday travel approaching and passenger volumes surging, officials are hoping a gentle nudge toward civility might transform the flying experience from a stress-filled ordeal back into something resembling enjoyable travel.
DOT Launches New Civility Campaign
The U.S. Department of Transportation has unveiled a national initiative urging travelers to elevate their behavior and restore civility to air travel. The campaign, titled “The Golden Age of Travel Starts with You,” calls on passengers to bring back courtesy, patience, and respect when flying.
Surge In Unruly Incidents Prompts Action
Officials cite alarming increases in bad behavior as the campaign’s driving force. Since 2021, airlines have reported 13,800 unruly passenger cases, with inflight outbursts rising more than 400% since 2019. Nearly one in five flight attendants experienced physical incidents in 2021, underscoring the urgency of a behavior-focused public appeal.
Restoring What Travel Used To Represent
The DOT emphasized that Americans have “lost sight of what makes travel fun,” pointing to rising stress, division, and incivility. The department argues that returning to simple manners – cordial conversations, patience, and respect – can help make flying enjoyable again and foster a more unified social atmosphere.
A Nostalgic Nod To The ‘Golden Age’
Drawing inspiration from mid-20th-century aviation, the campaign references a time when passengers dressed up and treated flying as a special experience. While some experts argue that the real “golden age” is today, the DOT suggests that bringing back thoughtful behaviors can improve the travel environment for everyone.
DOT’s Five Key Questions For Travelers
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy urged passengers to consider several personal questions before their next flight. These include:
• Are you helping elderly or pregnant travelers load their bags?
• Are you dressed respectfully?
• Are you keeping your children under control?
• Are you thanking flight attendants?
• Are you using “please” and “thank you” in general?
The DOT believes these small actions can significantly speed up travel and reduce frustration.
A Nationwide Push For Courtesy In The Skies
With travel volumes rising and holiday seasons approaching, the DOT hopes its campaign will influence passenger behavior and ease tensions onboard. As the department calls for renewed manners and mindfulness, it urges travelers to recognize that a smoother flight experience starts with every individual making respectful choices.
