Spirit Airlines has recently revised its conditions of carriage, introducing stricter clothing requirements for passengers. The updated policy states that the airline
Spirit Airlines Updates Clothing Policy: What Passengers Need to Know
Spirit Airlines has recently revised its conditions of carriage, introducing stricter clothing requirements for passengers. The updated policy states that the airline will refuse boarding to individuals who are barefoot, inadequately clothed, or wearing offensive attire or body art. This new rule sets Spirit apart from other major U.S. airlines, none of which explicitly mention tattoos in their dress code policies.
What Are Spirit Airlines’ New Clothing Rules?
Spirit Airlines’ updated policy states that passengers may be denied boarding if they are:
✅ Barefoot
✅ Inadequately clothed, including wearing see-through garments or exposing private parts such as breasts, buttocks, or other intimate areas
✅ Wearing lewd, obscene, or offensive clothing
✅ Displaying body art (tattoos) that may be considered offensive
While other airlines have similar rules regarding inappropriate clothing, Spirit is the first major U.S. airline to explicitly mention body art in its policy.
How Do Other Airlines Handle Dress Codes?
Most airlines have policies requiring passengers to wear appropriate attire, but none explicitly include tattoos as part of their guidelines. Here’s how other U.S. carriers handle dress code enforcement:
| Airline | Dress Code Policy |
|---|---|
| American Airlines | No bare feet or offensive clothing allowed. |
| Delta Air Lines | Service may be refused if attire is offensive, inappropriate, or causes discomfort to other passengers. |
| Alaska Airlines | Passengers must not be barefoot or wear clothing that causes offense or discomfort. |
| United Airlines | No bare feet, and clothing must not be lewd, obscene, or offensive. |
| Southwest Airlines | Passengers must wear proper attire but specific guidelines are unclear. |
| Frontier Airlines | Requires proper attire and prohibits clothing that is lewd, obscene, threatening, or intimidating. Bare feet (except for medical reasons) are also not allowed. |
While these airlines emphasize appropriate clothing, Spirit Airlines is unique in explicitly banning offensive tattoos as part of its policy.
Why Is Spirit Airlines Enforcing Stricter Attire Rules?
As a private business, Spirit Airlines has the legal right to set and enforce its own dress code policies. The airline’s decision to prohibit offensive tattoos likely stems from an effort to maintain a comfortable environment for all passengers.
Key Reasons for the Policy Change:
🔹 Preventing Passenger Discomfort – Airlines often deny boarding to passengers whose appearance might offend or disturb others.
🔹 Enhancing Brand Image – Spirit may be trying to create a more family-friendly atmosphere onboard.
🔹 Minimizing Conflict – Controversial or offensive tattoos could lead to disputes among passengers, potentially delaying flights.
However, enforcing these rules may prove challenging, as interpretations of “offensive” attire or body art can be subjective.
What Should Passengers Do?
If you’re flying with Spirit Airlines, it’s best to err on the side of caution when choosing your attire. Here are a few tips to avoid potential issues at boarding:
✔️ Wear appropriate clothing that fully covers your body.
✔️ Avoid see-through garments or anything that exposes private areas.
✔️ Cover up tattoos that might be considered offensive with clothing, bandages, or accessories.
✔️ Be prepared to change attire if asked by Spirit Airlines staff.
Passengers who fail to comply with Spirit’s dress code may be denied boarding without a refund or asked to change clothes before flying.
Spirit Airlines’ new dress code rules introduce a unique restriction on tattoos, setting it apart from other major U.S. airlines. While the policy aims to prevent discomfort and offensive displays, its subjectivity may create enforcement challenges.
Passengers should take extra care in choosing their attire and covering tattoos that could be deemed inappropriate. To avoid any travel disruptions, it’s best to dress modestly and be aware of the airline’s policies before heading to the airport.
