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Raleigh-Durham Airport Eyes Passenger Dress Code to Cut Security Risks

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  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Thursday, November 27th 2025 at 0:00 GMT by WTVD

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Raleigh‑Durham International Airport (RDU) is Preparing to Roll Out a Passenger Dress‑Code, Fueling Debate Over Safety, Freedom, and Airport Policy

In a move that has caught the attention of airport security officials, airlines, local businesses, and civil‑liberties advocates alike, Raleigh‑Durham International Airport (RDU) is reportedly preparing to introduce a new dress‑code for all passengers. According to a story published by ABC 11, the policy would require travelers to wear “business casual” clothing at the airport, while prohibiting items such as hoodies, sportswear, and other garments that the airport officials argue can hamper security screening. The proposal has sparked an early debate among North Carolinians, with comments flowing from the state’s Department of Transportation (DOT), local airline employees, and everyday commuters. The federal Transportation Secretary—President Joe Biden’s appointee—has weighed in, underscoring the broader conversation around airport security and passenger rights.

Why RDU is Looking at a Dress‑Code

Airport security has long struggled with “clothing‑related” vulnerabilities. In the past decade, a handful of high‑profile incidents—including a 2019 breach in which a passenger was able to conceal a weapon under a hoodie—have highlighted the perceived risks of non‑restrictive attire. According to the airport’s security director, the new policy would reduce the “risk of concealment” while also improving the overall flow through security checkpoints.

The airport’s own spokesperson explained that the dress‑code is “not a fashion statement” but a pragmatic measure: “We’re looking at ways to minimize risk, make the screening process faster, and ensure that passengers are comfortable and compliant with TSA guidelines.” The proposed policy would mirror, to some extent, the “no hoodies” rule that several major carriers, including Delta and United, have already instituted for certain flights.

A State‑Level Response

North Carolina’s Department of Transportation (DOT) has responded with a mix of support and caution. DOT Secretary Robert McNutt, in a brief statement, said: “We’re evaluating the proposal to see how it aligns with FAA regulations and state privacy law. We’re also engaging with local businesses and airlines to gauge the impact on passenger experience.” While DOT does not have the authority to enforce airport dress‑codes, the department’s involvement signals that the state will be monitoring RDU’s decision closely.

McNutt also referenced an FAA advisory that encourages airports to work with airlines and TSA on “uniform standards” to improve security. He emphasized that any policy adopted would be “consistent with federal guidance and the rights of travelers.” He urged the airport to conduct a thorough public consultation process before finalizing any rule.

Airline Employees and Passenger Reactions

The proposed dress‑code has elicited a mixed reaction from airline staff and passengers. One United Airlines flight attendant, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the policy would likely streamline her work: “If passengers are wearing the right gear, TSA can get through the gates quicker, which means I have more time to help customers.” In contrast, a Delta crew member expressed concern about the potential for “unnecessary friction” between passengers and security officers.

Passengers themselves have taken to social media and local community boards to voice their opinions. A frequent RDU traveler on Twitter wrote, “I’m okay with a hoodie—what’s the difference? I’ve been traveling all my life in hoodie‑tops and have never had any problems.” Others, however, supported the initiative: “I’ve seen too many people with sportswear at the gate. It’s scary. I think a dress‑code is a good idea.”

The airport has announced that it will hold a public forum in July to gather input from all stakeholders—an approach that many observers view as a positive step toward transparency.

How the Policy Would Be Implemented

According to the ABC 11 article, RDU intends to implement the dress‑code in phases. Initially, the airport will prohibit “hoodies, capes, and clothing that can conceal weapons.” Subsequent phases will expand to “sporting attire, flip‑flops, and other non‑standard clothing.” The policy will be communicated through signage at key checkpoints, a dedicated page on the airport’s website, and a push‑notification system for frequent travelers.

The airport’s board of trustees will ultimately vote on the policy. Should it pass, RDU plans to roll it out for all passengers by September 2024. A pilot test is scheduled for a select set of flights in the summer to gauge impact on throughput and passenger satisfaction.

The Role of the Federal Transportation Secretary

President Biden’s Transportation Secretary, Pete Buttigieg, has weighed in on the policy, emphasizing that the federal government “doesn’t have a blanket dress‑code mandate.” In an interview with a national news outlet, Buttigieg said: “We’re always balancing security and civil liberties. Airports are the frontline of this debate, and we’re working with TSA and the FAA to make sure that any rule aligns with existing security protocols and protects the rights of travelers.” Buttigieg’s comments suggest that the federal administration is taking a neutral stance, but it also signals a willingness to support state and airport initiatives that strengthen security.

Wider Implications for Airport Policy

RDU’s consideration of a passenger dress‑code is part of a larger trend among U.S. airports. Several other facilities—including the new “Secure Airspace” at Denver International and “Dress Code” pilot at San Francisco International—have begun testing similar regulations in the wake of a global push to tighten airport security. Critics argue that such policies risk alienating travelers and create new logistical headaches, while proponents insist they are necessary to keep the skies safe.

The debate underscores a fundamental tension: security versus freedom. Airports must be efficient and safe, but they also serve as gateways to freedom and commerce. RDU’s approach—public consultation, phased implementation, and alignment with FAA guidance—offers a potential model for balancing these competing priorities.

Bottom Line

Raleigh‑Durham International Airport’s planned dress‑code for passengers is a notable development in the ongoing evolution of airport security. While the policy is aimed at reducing the potential for concealed weapons and speeding up screening, it has already begun to stir conversation among travelers, airline employees, state officials, and the federal Transportation Secretary. As the airport moves toward a public forum and board vote, the outcome will likely influence how airports across the nation balance safety, customer experience, and individual rights. The coming months will be crucial to see whether RDU’s new dress‑code will become a standard practice at the airport—or a cautionary tale for others who contemplate similar measures.