Europe’s largest budget airline, Ryanair, has sparked a new online debate after posting an unusual message on its social media channels encouraging flyers to reconsider their clothing choices specifically urging them to stop traveling in jeans. The airline, known for its no-frills service and outspoken online presence, shared the statement in a short video on TikTok that immediately divided opinion among travellers worldwide.
The Viral TikTok Message
In the video clip posted to the airline’s official TikTok account, a Ryanair aircraft is shown making a descent, with text overlay reading: “It’s 2026, let’s stop travelling in jeans” and a caption that added a polite “please” along with a hands-together emoji. Ryanair’s succinct request was intended to spark discussion and encourage passengers to think about comfort during flights, but the message took many viewers by surprise. Unlike a typical marketing announcement, Ryanair did not frame this as a new rule or dress code requirement. Instead, the airline’s playful and direct tone was in line with its broader social media strategy — one that often includes lighthearted content to engage its large online following. Nonetheless, the post generated both confusion and strong opinions among users.
Public Reaction: Confusion, Humor, and Debate
Responses to Ryanair’s suggestion ranged from bewilderment to jocular backlash. Some passengers were genuinely confused, asking why jeans would be a problem in the first place. One commenter questioned what could possibly be wrong with wearing denim on a flight, prompting Ryanair’s playful reply: “What’s right with them?” Others joked about airlines possibly charging extra for wearing jeans or teased that they would show up in historical outfits instead. Other travellers agreed with the idea that jeans are not the most comfortable option for flying — particularly on longer journeys with limited legroom. Several social media users said that loose-fitting attire such as leggings, sweatpants, or tracksuits are easier to sit in during flights, even if such clothing may not be considered fashionable by all.
Why Comfort Matters on Flights
Comfort really does matter on board — especially in the cramped conditions of economy cabins where legroom is at a premium. Many travel experts recommend loose-fitting and flexible clothing for flights to help improve circulation and reduce discomfort. Traditional denim jeans, particularly stiff or tight pairs, can restrict movement and may feel uncomfortable when seated for long periods. In some cases, medical professionals have noted that overly restrictive clothing could contribute to poor circulation and discomfort in the lower limbs. Ryanair’s suggestion aligns loosely with these broader comfort tips, even if presented in a tongue-in-cheek manner. The airline did not state that passengers would be penalised for wearing jeans; rather, it appeared to be encouraging travellers to prioritise comfort over style when possible.
Not a Rule, Just a Recommendation
Crucially, Ryanair has not changed its official policies or created a dress code rule banning denim. Jeans are still allowed on board, and passengers will not be stopped from flying because of their outfits. The airline’s post seems to be more of a prompt to get travellers talking than an enforceable guideline. Despite this, the suggestion has ignited widespread debate about travel etiquette and comfort — proving once again that even small statements from major airlines can quickly become trending topics online. Whether passengers will actually ditch their denim for flights remains to be seen, but the conversation has clearly taken off.
