Tampa International Airport posted a joke on social media this week that it would become the “world’s first Crocs-free AND pajama-free airport,” which caused confusion among millions of viewers as to whether the post was indeed true.
The airport said that after successfully going “Crocs-free,” the airport had “seen enough” of pajamas.
“The madness stops today. The movement starts now,” the post stated.
Travelers have been deliberately wearing pajamas to airports in protest of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy’s campaign to get flyers to dress better. In a November press conference, he called the increase in the number of people wearing pajamas and Crocs at airports “a degradation in civility.”
The Transportation Department said its “The Golden Age of Travel Starts With You” campaign was “intended to jumpstart a nationwide conversation around how we can all restore courtesy and class to air travel.”
Many of the people responding to the Tampa airport’s post commented that uncomfortable seats, long security lines and unpredictable delays make comfort a necessity.
The airport’s spokesperson confirmed the post was a joke, noting that Tampa International Airport has long used satire in its social media posts.
“Today’s post about ’banning’ pajamas was another playful nod to day-of-travel fashion debates,” it said. “We encourage our passengers to travel comfortably and appreciate our loyal followers who enjoy the online humor.”
Mr. Duffy responded to the post with a GIF of actor John Krasinski from “The Office” giving a knowing look to camera.
No actual ban or dress code is in place at the airport.
• This story is based in part on wire service reports.
• Juliet La Sala can be reached at jlasala@washingtontimes.com.
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