Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is pitching some unconventional upgrades to America’s airports as part of his broader push to reshape the air travel experience.
At a Monday, Dec. 8, news conference at Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Va., Duffy, 54, said he wants airports to consider adding dedicated workout spaces so passengers can move around before boarding.
“Maybe I want a workout area where people might get some blood flowing doing some pull-ups or some step-ups in the airport,” he said while unveiling his “Make Travel Family Friendly Again” initiative.
Duffy floated the idea while outlining a new $1 billion Trump administration grant program designed to encourage airports to become more health-conscious and family-oriented. A father of nine, he said airports could qualify for funding by expanding children’s play areas, building more nursing rooms and pods, and creating security lanes specifically designated for families.
“How can we make the experience better as you come through an airport?” he asked.
Influencer Paul Saladino joined Duffy at the event and pushed for “mini-gyms” inside terminals, featuring treadmills near gates, yoga mats and exercise bikes so travelers can stay active while they wait.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. also attended, emphasizing the need for healthier food options in airports as part of his MAHA mission.
The trio capped the event with a pull-up contest using bars installed specifically for the press conference, according to USA Today. Kennedy, 71, completed 20 pull-ups, while Duffy ended his set at 10. Duffy’s 17-year-old daughter, Paloma, joined in as well, finishing with 13 push-ups.
Duffy’s push isn’t only about movement — it’s also about appearance. Last month, he stirred debate by suggesting that Americans “dress a little better” when flying, particularly around the busy Thanksgiving holiday.
He made those remarks while elaborating on the U.S. Department of Transportation’s “Golden Age of Travel” campaign during a Nov. 24 press conference at Newark International Airport in New Jersey.
“I would encourage people to dress a little better which encourages us to maybe behave a little better,” Duffy said at the time. “Let’s try not to wear slippers and pajamas as we come to the airport.”
Duffy also called on travelers to be kinder to airline crews and airport staff, saying, “A little gratitude goes a long way.”
“If we all do that, I think we’re going to have a far better travel season,” he added. “By the way, we’re going to get to our families on Thanksgiving with a lot better attitude.”
