Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy introduces a national civility initiative as travelers move through busy airport terminals ahead of the holiday season. (Secretary Duffy photo courtesy of the U.S. Department of Transportation)
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy introduces “The Golden Age of Travel Starts With You,” a DOT campaign urging travelers to practice courtesy and reduce unruly behavior as airports prepare for record holiday crowds.
WASHINGTON — As the United States prepares for one of its busiest holiday travel seasons in years, the Department of Transportation has introduced a national campaign urging Americans to revive courtesy in airports and on flights.
Launched on November 19, the initiative encourages travelers to dress appropriately, help elderly passengers with their bags, supervise children and use polite greetings such as “please” and “thank you.” The department said these gestures can ease tensions during the most congested travel period of the year.
The DOT’s new effort, titled “The Golden Age of Travel Starts With You,” is meant to spark a broader discussion about how passengers themselves can help restore respect in shared travel spaces. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy introduced the campaign amid continued concerns over disruptive behavior on board. Federal Aviation Administration records show that although the largest spike occurred in 2021, today’s reports of unruly conduct still exceed pre-pandemic levels. Incidents include confrontations with fellow passengers and conflicts with airline staff.
Unruly behavior still a concern
While mask-related disputes have diminished, the FAA continues to receive thousands of reports each year. Passengers who refuse to follow crew instructions or behave aggressively face civil fines that can exceed 43,000 dollars per violation. The agency refers the most serious cases to federal law enforcement.
Airline workers note that crowded cabins, long lines and weather delays often create conditions where minor disagreements escalate. Flight attendants, who serve as safety officers, say clear cooperation from passengers helps prevent disruptions.
Why the DOT moved now
Forecasts show that Thanksgiving and December travel volumes are expected to surpass recent years. Full flights, limited overhead space and the possibility of delays make courtesy an important part of keeping operations smooth.
The department’s reminders focus on five ideas: helping those who need assistance, dressing appropriately for shared space, supervising children closely, addressing crew politely and recognizing that every flight is a collective experience.
What travelers should expect
Officials advise arriving early, keeping identification accessible and limiting oversized carry-ons. Families are encouraged to brief children about airport procedures, including security screening and settling into seats without delay.
On board, the DOT highlights small habits that reduce stress: storing luggage quickly, clearing aisles during boarding, listening to crew instructions and staying patient when unexpected changes arise.
Flight attendants say these practices not only help maintain order but also improve the overall travel atmosphere.
A test of public cooperation
Whether the civility campaign will reduce disruptive behavior remains uncertain. Transportation officials say progress often comes through consistent messaging and shared expectations.
“Flying was once associated with excitement and shared experience,” the department said. “We can bring that spirit back when passengers choose respect.”
As millions of Americans head to airports this season, the campaign will be judged not only by statistics but also by the tone inside terminals and cabins nationwide.
