Spirit Airlines has introduced a significant update to its contract of carriage, outlining stricter dress code policies that could see passengers denied boarding or removed from a flight if they are deemed to be in violation of the new guidelines.
The Florida-based ultra-low-cost carrier now explicitly prohibits passengers from boarding if they are barefoot, inadequately clothed, or displaying tattoos or clothing with lewd, obscene, or offensive content. The airline defines “inadequately clothed” as wearing see-through garments or exposing private body parts, including breasts and buttocks.
Spirit’s revised contract, which took effect on 22 January 2024, further states that passengers with an “offensive odour” may also be removed, unless the condition is linked to a recognised disability.
Past Incidents Prompt Policy Clarification
The decision to refine these rules follows several high-profile incidents involving passenger attire. In October, two women claimed they were removed from a Spirit flight from Los Angeles to New Orleans for wearing crop tops. The passengers insisted their outfits did not breach any stated policy, alleging that a male flight attendant unfairly targeted them.
Similarly, a San Antonio-bound traveller was recently asked to leave a flight from Los Angeles due to a sweatshirt featuring an altered but recognisable expletive. Despite modifying one letter in the word, the intent was deemed inappropriate, and Spirit’s crew quickly enforced the revised rules.
Comparisons with Other Airlines
While Spirit Airlines has drawn significant attention for its more detailed dress code, it is not alone in enforcing such regulations. American Airlines also prohibits passengers from wearing “offensive clothing” but does not define the specifics as clearly as Spirit. The lack of clarity has previously led to contentious removals, with American Airlines facing criticism for inconsistencies in enforcement.
Last year, American Airlines adjusted its policy, limiting flight attendants’ authority to remove passengers for non-safety-related concerns. The decision followed a widely publicised incident where a group of Black passengers was falsely accused of body odour and removed from a flight, leading to an out-of-court settlement.
Other major airlines, including Delta Air Lines, have also made headlines for disputes over passenger dress, with some travellers alleging unfair treatment, particularly towards women. A woman reported being escorted off a Delta flight for not wearing a bra, sparking debates over gender bias in airline dress codes.
A Shift in Airline Policies
Spirit Airlines’ updated guidelines mark a notable shift towards clearer enforcement of passenger conduct policies. While airlines have long had the discretion to remove passengers for inappropriate attire, Spirit’s move to explicitly define prohibited clothing and tattoos sets a precedent that could influence other carriers.
The new policy highlights a growing trend in the aviation industry, where airlines seek to balance passenger comfort with maintaining onboard decorum. However, with subjectivity in enforcement still a concern, airlines will likely face continued scrutiny over whether these policies are applied fairly and consistently.
Conclusion
As airlines tighten conduct regulations, passengers should be increasingly mindful of dress codes when travelling. Spirit Airlines’ updated policy signals a clear stance on acceptable attire, ensuring a more structured approach to passenger appearance. However, the effectiveness of these rules will depend on consistent application—something that airlines have historically struggled with. Whether this change leads to smoother onboard experiences or fuels further controversies remains to be seen.
