U.S. DOT Launches Civility Campaign Ahead of Busy Travel Season
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has initiated a “civility campaign” aimed at promoting respectful behavior among airline passengers as the busy holiday travel season kicks off. Dubbed “The Golden Age of Travel Starts with You,” this campaign seeks to address a troubling increase in unruly behavior observed on flights and in airports.
Key Points / What’s New
- The campaign was announced in a press release and is accompanied by a promotional video.
- Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy emphasizes the importance of courtesy in air travel.
- The DOT reports a significant uptick in incidents involving disruptive passengers since 2021.
Details of the Campaign
In an effort to foster positive interactions during air travel, the DOT released a video set to Frank Sinatra’s “Come Fly With Me.” This footage contrasts nostalgic images of air travel with modern scenes depicting disruptive behavior, such as scuffles between passengers. The video serves as a wake-up call for travelers this holiday season, urging them to reflect on their actions.
Secretary Duffy encouraged passengers to consider their conduct by posing five reflective questions. These include whether travelers are assisting fellow passengers with their luggage, dressing appropriately, and expressing gratitude to flight attendants and pilots. The campaign aims to promote a culture of courtesy and kindness in the skies, emphasizing that these small gestures can lead to a more enjoyable travel experience for all.
The DOT aims to create a national dialogue around restoring civility in air travel. According to their statement, fostering a respectful atmosphere not only enhances the experience for passengers but also contributes significantly to the safety of everyone involved in air travel, including staff and flight crews.
Rising Incidents of Unruly Behavior
The launch of this civility campaign comes in response to alarming statistics. The DOT reported over 13,800 incidents of unruly passenger behavior since 2021, with a staggering 400% increase in in-flight disruptions noted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) since 2019. This troubling trend prompted the agency to take proactive steps to mitigate inappropriate conduct in the air.
While 2023 saw nearly 2,000 reported incidents—down from pandemic highs during mask mandates—the FAA anticipates this Thanksgiving will be the busiest air travel period in 15 years, with an estimated 6 million people flying across the U.S.
Background
The DOT’s civility initiative highlights ongoing concerns regarding air travel behavior as the holiday season approaches. With the FAA’s monitoring of incidents, the emphasis on civility has become increasingly critical, especially given the surge in travel expected during peak periods. In recent years, the aviation industry has grappled with balancing passenger comfort and safety amid rising tensions on flights.
