Spirit Airlines Revives Dress Code: How Far Is Too Far?

Dress codes across airlines

• Spirit Airlines: Spirit’s newly updated policy emphasizes modesty and respect. Bare feet, see-through clothing, or exposed private areas can result in passengers being denied boarding. Additionally, clothing or tattoos deemed offensive or obscene are prohibited
• Hawaiian Airlines: Known for its specific dress code, Hawaiian Airlines requires passengers to cover both the upper and lower torso. Tank tops, tube tops, and halter tops are acceptable, but bathing suits, speedos, and bikini bottoms are not. Footwear is also mandatory unless a medical condition prevents it
• Southwest Airlines: Southwest’s policy prohibits “lewd, obscene, or patently offensive clothing.” Shoes are required, and passengers who do not meet the dress code may be asked to change or leave the plane
• United Airlines: United specifies that passengers must be “properly clothed.” Similar to Southwest, attire that is lewd or offensive is not allowed. The policy also requires passengers to wear shoes
• American Airlines: American Airlines avoids detailed descriptions but mandates “appropriate” clothing. Bare feet or offensive attire are not permitted. Staff discretion plays a significant role in enforcement
• Delta Air Lines: Delta does not have a highly specific dress code but reserves the right to deny boarding if a passenger’s attire, conduct, hygiene, or odor causes discomfort to others. Bare feet are explicitly banned
• Qatar Airways: Business class and above passengers are expected to dress “smart casual.” Shorts, sportswear, and overly revealing clothing are prohibited, and guidelines aim to ensure comfort and respect

These seemingly straightforward rules leave room for interpretation, often putting flight attendants in the position of arbiters of what is acceptable.

One argument favoring dress codes is the need for mutual respect in shared spaces. Airlines serve diverse passengers, including families with children, and clothing that is overly provocative or features offensive language can make others uncomfortable. Furthermore, dress codes contribute to safety and practicality. Airlines require passengers to wear shoes, not just for decorum but also for safety during emergencies.

Supporters of dress codes also point out that as private companies, airlines have the right to enforce reasonable standards of conduct as part of their broader customer policies. After all, passengers agree to the terms when they purchase a ticket.

However, what one person sees as offensive or inappropriate might not be the same for another.

In some cases, enforcement has been criticized for disproportionately targeting women or people of color. When dress codes cross into certain territories, they risk alienating customers and sparking a public backlash.

Moreover, restrictive dress codes can infringe on passengers' comfort. For many, the long hours spent cramped in a plane justify prioritizing comfort over fashion. If someone is covered appropriately and not actively offending others, should it matter if they wear pajamas or athletic wear?

For most airlines, breaking the dress code means you’ll be asked to change. A spare jacket or shirt in your carry-on can save you from being denied boarding. In extreme cases, refusal to comply may lead to removal from the plane or even legal consequences, especially if the situation escalates.

So, should airlines have dress codes? Dress codes can serve an important purpose in creating a respectful and safe environment for all passengers. But these rules should be clear, consistently enforced, and sensitive to individual rights.

For travelers, the safest option might be to adhere to the dress code to avoid delays or confrontations. But if a policy feels overly restrictive or discriminatory, speaking out could help ensure fairer treatment for all. At the end of the day, air travel should be about getting from point A to point B comfortably and safely—and maybe there’s room for both freedom and respect in that equation.