Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy Praises Pope Leo XIV’s Airplane Attire Amid Civility Campaign
NEWARK, N.J. — December 3, 2025 — Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has publicly commended Pope Leo XIV for his choice of attire aboard an airplane, using the moment to promote a broader campaign encouraging civility and respectful behavior among air travelers. The pope, currently on his first overseas trip to Turkey and Lebanon, was pictured aboard a plane holding a baseball bat gifted to him, which once belonged to Chicago White Sox player Nellie Fox. Duffy shared a photo of the pope on social media, praising his outfit as “dressing with respect.” The post sparked discussion online about airline dress codes and passenger conduct.
Duffy’s remarks come amid his newly launched civility campaign aimed at improving manners, flight behavior, and appropriate dress during air travel, especially as the holiday season brings increased passenger volume. Speaking at Newark Airport last week, Duffy noted a perceived decline in civility among travelers and urged the public to be courteous and patient. He specifically mentioned discouraging the wearing of pajamas or slippers on planes, emphasizing the importance of neat clothing and polite behavior.
The campaign also includes calls for simple acts of courtesy, such as properly stacking TSA bins after security checks. Duffy reiterated these points during a recent Cabinet meeting, underscoring the need for respectful interactions in airports and on flights.
Social media users responded to Duffy’s praise of the pope’s attire with a mix of approval and humor. Some applauded the pope’s example of respectful dress, while others defended more casual travel wear. Comments ranged from lighthearted jokes about the pope’s baseball bat to reflections on the challenges of modern air travel.
The pope’s overseas trip marks a significant journey, and his appearance aboard the plane has drawn attention not only for the gift he received but also for the message it conveyed in the context of Duffy’s civility initiative. The Transportation Secretary’s campaign seeks to address frustrations common during busy travel periods by encouraging passengers to maintain decorum and respect for fellow travelers.
As millions prepare to travel during the Thanksgiving holiday, Duffy’s campaign highlights the importance of maintaining civility in crowded airports and on flights, aiming to improve the overall travel experience through simple acts of respect and consideration.
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