My number one travel tip is to always be genuinely kind when you travel, especially to gate agents and flight attendants, since they can make or break your trip. Which is why we almost always bring chocolates when we travel but a smile goes a long way too.
I also believe travelers should dress appropriately, avoiding profanity or political statements on shirts or hats and steering clear of overly risqué clothing. Airlines clearly agree, as rules are already in place—and I’ve written my fair share of stories about people breaking those rules and, in some cases, becoming outright belligerent. That’s why it will be interesting to see how travelers respond to U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy’s new civility campaign, “The Golden Age of Travel Starts with You.”
As holiday travel ramps up, Secretary Duffy is urging Americans to rethink how they behave in airports and on planes. The campaign is aimed at restoring courtesy, calm and common sense to air travel, a goal that might sound simple but, as the statistics show, is increasingly urgent.
According to the Department of Transportation, unruly passenger incidents have skyrocketed in recent years. Since 2019, the FAA has documented a 400% increase in in-flight outbursts from verbal disruptions to physical violence. Between 2020 and 2021, reports of unruly passengers rose sixfold, and by 2024 the numbers had doubled compared to 2019. Flight attendants are on the front lines. One in five experienced a physical incident in 2021. The data paints a clear picture: air travel has become stressful not only for passengers but also for the people keeping flights safe and orderly.
Duffy’s campaign emphasizes simple, actionable steps that travelers can take. Among them are helping elderly or pregnant passengers with overhead luggage, keeping control of children and expressing gratitude to flight attendants. One of the more eye-catching points, however, is also one of the most overlooked: dressing with respect.
This goes beyond fashion. It’s about showing basic respect for fellow travelers and airline staff. Profanity-laden shirts, offensive hats or clothing that is overly revealing may seem harmless, but they can contribute to tension and conflict on crowded flights. Airlines already have rules in place prohibiting offensive or disruptive attire, and frequent reports of passengers violating these rules, sometimes escalating to verbal or physical altercations, highlight why this is more than just a suggestion.
For many seasoned travelers, the idea of government involvement in personal attire may feel intrusive. But according to the press release, Secretary Duffy’s campaign is not about enforcement; it’s about sparking a conversation. Small gestures, polite words, patience, a helpful hand and yes, thoughtful clothing choices can collectively transform the travel experience for everyone.
Ultimately, “The Golden Age of Travel Starts with You” is a reminder that civility, manners and common sense still matter. While infrastructure improvements and more air traffic controllers are critical to easing congestion and delays, the human element is just as important. Travelers who are kind, considerate and mindful of how they present themselves can make the skies safer and more pleasant for everyone.
Not surprisingly, comments were turned off on their YouTube video about the campaign (embedded above).
Is it so bad that this holiday season the DOT is asking passengers to pause and reflect: Am I helping others? Am I being polite? Am I dressing with respect? We’ll soon find out.
