As the holiday season approaches, US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy encouraged airline passengers to maintain courtesy and emphasized the importance of dressing appropriately. He made these remarks during a press conference on Monday, November 24th.
Duffy suggested, “Perhaps we should dress a little more formally and remember to say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ to pilots and flight attendants.”
Acknowledging that flight delays and cancellations can make some passengers agitated and less compliant with rules, he posed the question, “How can we overcome any potential dissatisfaction during Thanksgiving travel?”
He urged passengers to remain patient and polite when encountering unexpected changes, and pointed out that formal, appropriate attire can help maintain an elegant, civilized, and peaceful mindset that benefits both oneself and others, ultimately contributing to flight safety.
Furthermore, Duffy remarked, “Dressing appropriately, such as wearing a decent shirt, can encourage everyone to conduct themselves with more decorum.”
He added, “Try to avoid wearing slippers and pajamas to the airport.”
Last week, he also urged on social media platform X, “Let’s have a pleasant plane journey this holiday season! Dress up nicely at the airport, help strangers, and maintain a good mood! Restoring civility is actually quite simple.”
In recent weeks, the ongoing government shutdown not only disrupted the travel plans of individuals and families but also increased pressure on airport staff. Air traffic controllers have had to work overtime, leading to a rise in retirements. The number of flights at at least 40 airports has decreased, and fund shortages have raised concerns about safety.
The Department of Transportation stated on Monday that nearly 20 million people are expected to travel by plane this week, with some airports anticipated to experience the busiest Thanksgiving in 15 years.
This article was based on a report from “Congress Hill News.”