US Aviation Campaign Urges Passengers to Improve Behaviour and Restore Decorum on Flights

Published on December 29, 2025

The United States has launched a new national initiative aimed at restoring civility and decorum among airline passengers. The campaign, unveiled seeks to address the increasing number of disruptive incidents on flights and to encourage passengers to adopt better manners while traveling. The campaign underscores the importance of restoring respect and courtesy in airports and on aircraft cabins, where passenger behaviour has been deteriorating in recent years.

The initiative comes at a time when reports of in-flight disturbances have surged by approximately 400% since 2019. Though the frequency of the most severe incidents has decreased from the peak levels seen during the pandemic, disruptive behaviour remains a major concern for airlines and aviation authorities. The campaign aims to prevent further escalation of these issues by promoting basic etiquette and respectful behaviour, which the authorities believe can help mitigate the rising tension in the air.

Campaign Focus on Passenger Conduct and Etiquette

The new campaign combines nostalgia with modern behavioural science to argue that how passengers dress and behave in flight directly impacts the overall atmosphere onboard.

Rather than enforcing a formal dress code, the campaign encourages travelers to dress intentionally and respectfully. Duffy emphasized that thoughtful dressing could contribute to reduced stress, better interactions with both fellow passengers and the flight crew, and a more positive flying experience overall. Passengers are also urged to practice basic social etiquette, such as saying “please” and “thank you,” showing patience during flight delays, and helping others with overhead luggage. These small gestures can have a significant impact on the cabin atmosphere.

The campaign also advocates for mindfulness, urging passengers to consider the impact of their actions on others, which is essential in ensuring that the flying environment remains pleasant and safe for everyone.

Rising Number of Disruptive In-Flight Incidents

US aviation data reveals that reported in-flight disturbances have remained significantly above pre-pandemic levels, with a substantial spike in incidents since 2019. During the height of the crisis in 2021, nearly one in five flight attendants reported experiencing physical confrontations with passengers, underscoring the strain that unruly behaviour places on airline staff. Despite the decline in more severe incidents, authorities have been working to address these disruptions through a variety of measures, including the implementation of long-term passenger bans and the deployment of additional support staff on flights.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other regulatory bodies have expressed concerns over how these disturbances affect both flight safety and the overall travel experience. Some airlines have introduced more stringent protocols to manage in-flight issues, and several have called for a cultural reset within the aviation industry to ensure that passengers adhere to a higher standard of conduct.

Impact of the Campaign on Business and Frequent Travelers

The initiative is expected to influence travel norms, particularly among frequent business travelers. With the rising concern about passenger behaviour, some companies are reconsidering their smart-casual dress expectations for corporate travel, especially on premium or long-haul flights. Industry observers note that promoting a more etiquette-driven flying environment could enhance the overall experience for business travelers, improving both their comfort and productivity during flights.

For leisure travelers, the campaign might offer the opportunity to reintroduce a sense of decorum to what has often been a more relaxed environment, particularly on short-haul flights. By emphasizing courteousness and respect for others, the initiative hopes to foster a more pleasant flying experience for all passengers, regardless of their travel purpose.

Wider Global Implications and Alignment with International Standards

While the US-led campaign is specifically targeted at addressing disruptive passenger behaviour within the domestic aviation industry, its themes are likely to resonate internationally. Airlines and airports in the UK and other countries have faced similar challenges, and the US initiative may influence how international carriers approach passenger conduct. Aviation policy frequently follows the lead of US standards, and the cultural reset called for by Duffy’s campaign may inspire similar efforts across the global aviation industry.

Although there is no direct equivalent campaign yet in the UK, industry figures suggest that airlines on both sides of the Atlantic are increasingly aligned on the importance of prioritizing civility, safety, and crew well-being. The initiative is expected to drive international conversation around the role of passenger etiquette in improving overall flight safety and customer satisfaction.

The Path Forward for the Airline Industry

As the campaign gains momentum, regulators, airlines, and passengers alike will need to work together to create an environment that prioritizes respect and mindfulness while traveling. While the future of air travel will undoubtedly continue to evolve with the increasing demand for both domestic and international flights, one thing remains clear: passengers, crews, and airlines alike must make a collective effort to restore and maintain decorum in the skies.