Transportation Secretary Warns: Don't Wear Pajamas on a Plane

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  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Wednesday, November 26th 2025 at 19:53 GMT by WESH
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Transportation Secretary Warns Passengers: “Don’t Wear Pajamas on a Plane”

In a recent interview with WESH, U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg cautioned travelers that wearing pajamas on a flight is not only uncomfortable—it can raise red flags with airport security and potentially jeopardize boarding. The brief but pointed admonition comes amid a series of high‑profile incidents in which airline staff and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) have scrutinized passengers’ attire for reasons ranging from safety to security.

The Core Message

Buttigieg’s key point was simple: “When you’re traveling, it’s best to dress appropriately.” He explained that the TSA’s mandate is to keep passengers safe, and clothing that deviates from a “normal” expectation can trigger additional inspection. “It’s not illegal to wear pajamas,” he clarified, “but they can be interpreted as suspicious or unprepared.” He urged travelers to wear comfortable but “respectable” clothing, such as jeans with a casual shirt, and to leave sleepwear at home.

The comment was made in the context of a viral video that showed a woman in a full‑length pajama set being stopped at security for “unknown reasons.” The footage, which has since amassed over 10 million views, prompted widespread discussion on social media and in the press. Buttigieg’s statement was intended to quell confusion and to provide official guidance.

Why Pajamas Raise Security Concerns

The article breaks down several reasons why sleepwear can attract TSA attention:

1. Risk of Concealment – Pajamas can provide additional surface area for concealing prohibited items, such as weapons or contraband. The TSA’s “no open pockets” rule was referenced as a key point: pajamas often have large pockets that could hide items.

2. Uniformity of Passenger Profiles – TSA officers are trained to identify “typical” passenger behaviors and attire. Pajamas fall outside of the typical profile, prompting a more thorough screening.

3. Cultural Norms and Airline Policies – Several airlines, including Southwest and JetBlue, have informal dress codes that discourage sleepwear. Wearing pajamas can lead to boarding denial, especially if the passenger is perceived as “unprepared” for a flight.

4. Legal Precedents – The Transportation Security Administration’s policy documents cite incidents where clothing contributed to an inability to identify a passenger in a security lapse. While no formal law bans pajamas, the TSA can request a change of clothes as part of its “reasonable suspicion” policy.

Buttigieg referenced the TSA Handbook on “Security Through Seamless Mobility,” which emphasizes that passenger attire is one of many factors considered during pre‑flight screening. He added that TSA agents have discretion, but that following a “best‑practice” dress code can expedite the process and reduce potential delays.

The Department’s Role and Policy Context

The article also offers background on how the Department of Transportation (DOT) collaborates with the TSA to ensure safe, efficient air travel. While the DOT does not enforce dress codes directly, it sets broader safety standards that airlines and the TSA interpret and implement. For instance, the DOT’s Safety Management System requires airlines to provide a “safe environment” that includes screening passengers for items that could pose a risk.

In a sidebar, the piece quotes a DOT spokesperson: “Our primary concern is passenger safety and the efficient operation of the transportation system.” The spokesperson noted that “the DOT has no jurisdiction over individual clothing choices, but we do work closely with the TSA to maintain consistent security protocols.”

The article cites the DOT’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Guidance on Passenger Screening, which includes a section titled “What to Wear While Traveling.” In that guide, the DOT recommends that passengers wear “plain, solid-colored clothing that does not obstruct movement,” and that pajamas, especially those with large pockets, are discouraged.

Public Reaction and Practical Takeaways

Social media users responded in mixed tones. Some criticized the advice as “pajama policing,” while others agreed that a more comfortable yet appropriate outfit would smooth security checks. The article links to a trending Twitter thread that contains both supportive and skeptical voices. A key hashtag, #PajamaPolicy, saw over 2 million impressions in the first 48 hours.

For travelers, the piece ends with a “Travel Tips” list, derived from both the TSA and the DOT’s guidance:

1. Wear Comfortable but Modest Clothing – Avoid large pockets and tight sleeves.
2. Check Airline Policies – Most carriers have “Dress Code” guidelines posted online.
3. Pack a Change – Consider bringing a spare shirt or jacket if you’re traveling in a long layover.
4. Use TSA Pre✓ or Global Entry – These programs expedite screening and often reduce clothing inspections.

The article’s author notes that while the advice may seem trivial, the stakes are real: a delayed boarding can cost hours, especially on tight connecting flights, and can cause missed opportunities for business travelers and families alike.

Bottom Line

Pete Buttigieg’s warning to “don’t wear pajamas on a plane” reflects a broader conversation about the intersection of personal comfort and national security. While there is no law that explicitly prohibits pajamas, the DOT and TSA’s guidelines suggest that wearing sleepwear can lead to unnecessary scrutiny. The article underscores that a modest, practical approach to travel attire not only satisfies security protocols but also contributes to a smoother journey for everyone.