Spirit Airlines has announced updates to its contract of carriage, effective January 22, focusing on stricter dress code regulations for passengers. The revised contract stipulates that individuals not complying with the airline's dress code may be prohibited from boarding or could be asked to disembark from an aircraft. This development highlights the airline's commitment to maintaining a specific standard of appearance among its passengers.
The updated guidelines specify that passengers may need to cover up certain tattoos and don additional clothing to adhere to the airline's standards. Previously, Spirit Airlines banned passengers from flying barefoot and prohibited attire deemed "lewd, obscene or offensive in nature." By elaborating on acceptable clothing, the airline aims to mitigate potential misunderstandings and reinforce its dress code policies.
"Barefoot or inadequately clothed, or whose clothing or article, including body art, is lewd, obscene, or offensive in nature." – Spirit Airlines
Spirit Airlines has faced criticism in the past regarding its dress code enforcement. In 2019, American Airlines issued an apology after a passenger was asked to cover her strapless romper. More recently, a passenger named Tara Kehidi and her friend were removed from a Spirit flight in October for wearing crop tops. Such incidents have drawn attention to the challenges airlines face in balancing passenger comfort with maintaining decorum on board.
The updated contract, part of Spirit Airlines' comprehensive contract of carriage, outlines various policies and procedures for passengers. It emphasizes the expectation for passengers to adhere to the dress code; non-compliance may result in denial of boarding or removal from the aircraft.
"See-through clothing, not adequately covered, exposed breasts, buttocks or other private parts." – Spirit Airlines
To date, CNN has reached out to Spirit Airlines for additional comments regarding the updated contract. The move underscores the airline's intent to ensure all passengers meet specified dress requirements while traveling.
