Yes, Airlines Have Dress Codes-Here's What to Know Before You Board

"Still, airlines offer very little detail on specifics. American Airlines simply advises passengers to "dress appropriately; bare feet or offensive clothing aren't allowed." Spirit is more explicit, noting it may deny boarding to anyone "inadequately clothed... or whose clothing or article, including body art, is lewd, obscene, or offensive in nature." Most carriers use similarly open-ended language, giving crews wide discretion, so what one employee considers acceptable may strike another as inappropriate."

"As travel expert and Point.me founder Tiffany Funk explains, this ambiguity "leaves a lot up to interpretation," which is why enforcement can feel inconsistent and, at times, spark controversy. The underlying intent is straightforward, though: airlines want to maintain a calm, family-friendly environment in a very confined space. Funk also points to the practical side of thoughtful dressing. Cabins run cool, and you're seated close to strangers for hours, so wearing layers and covering arms and legs isn't just polite-it's often more comfortable."

Airlines maintain dress codes with broadly worded rules and give crews wide discretion to judge passenger attire. Recent high-profile incidents have prompted some carriers to clarify expectations for staff while overall policies remain vague. The U.S. Transportation Department urged Americans to dress with "respect" before busy travel periods. American Airlines advises passengers to "dress appropriately; bare feet or offensive clothing aren't allowed," and Spirit states it may deny boarding to anyone "inadequately clothed... or whose clothing or article, including body art, is lewd, obscene, or offensive in nature." Ambiguity in policies leads to inconsistent enforcement. Thoughtful dressing also improves comfort because cabins run cool and seating is close.

Read at Travel + Leisure