I wouldn't say they are disrespecting you or aviation. As Jungle said, people fear the unknown. It's one thing to say, "Yeah I'll go for a ride with you" but when it turns into Saturday at 3pm "Well you know, Ol Miss is playing that day and..." People tend to want to not disagree with someone until they are put on the spot. Sort of like the girl that says "We should get together sometime" with the implied understanding "just not this century." I think they're saying yes to be polite, not thinking it will really happen.