A surprising voice has entered the debate over airline etiquette: the U.S. Transportation Secretary. Sean Duffy recently initiated a “civility campaign,” addressing concerns about declining manners, disruptive behavior, and even passenger attire during air travel.
The conversation took an unexpected turn when Duffy publicly praised Pope Francis’s travel style. He shared a photo of the Pope on his recent flight to Turkey and Lebanon, remarking, “Now THIS is dressing with respect.” The image showed the Pope casually chatting with fellow passengers while holding a baseball bat.
The bat itself was a gift – a piece of sporting history once belonging to Chicago White Sox legend Nellie Fox. This detail added another layer of intrigue to the already captivating image, quickly sparking lively discussion online.
Social media users responded with a mix of amusement and agreement. Comments ranged from playful admiration for the Pope’s style to lighthearted defenses of comfortable travel attire like pajamas and slippers.
Some even joked about the Pope’s choice of accessory, speculating whether he was a baseball enthusiast or simply offering a blessing to the bat. A few playfully suggested the bat might be for self-defense, given the increasing tensions sometimes seen during air travel.
Duffy’s initial comments about a “degradation in civility” came during a speech at Newark Airport. He observed a noticeable shift in passenger behavior, prompting the launch of the civility campaign aimed at fostering courtesy and patience, particularly during the busy holiday season.
He reinforced the message during a Cabinet meeting, urging Americans to be considerate, even in small ways – like properly stacking TSA bins. He also subtly suggested a return to more traditional travel attire, gently discouraging the wearing of pajamas and slippers on flights.
The Secretary’s campaign isn’t about strict rules, but rather a plea for mutual respect and consideration. It’s a reminder that even in the often-stressful environment of air travel, a little kindness can go a long way.
