Stuck on the Tarmac? Here are Your Rights

Long Delays and Tarmac Delays: What You Need to Know

COLONIE, N.Y. (NEWS10) — From passengers at Albany International Airport to viewer emails, NEWS10 has heard concerns from commuters either stuck on the tarmac for hours or delayed on Allegiant flights on Monday. It begs the question: What rights do you have in these situations?

DOT Rules: Prohibiting Tarmac Delays

DOT rules prohibit most U.S. airlines from allowing a flight to remain on the tarmac for more than 3 hours on domestic flights, or more than 4 hours on international flights. That is unless:

• The Pilot determines there’s a safety or security reason why the aircraft cannot taxi to the gate and deplane its passengers
• Air traffic control advises the pilot that taxiing to the gate (or another de-planing location) would significantly disrupt airport operations.

FAA Crew Time-Out Regs: A Safety Issue?

Attorney Tracy Brammeier says FAA crew time-out regulations (that Felano mentioned) could qualify as a safety issue.

Provision of Food and Water

The DOT says airlines must provide passengers with food and water no later than two hours after a delay begins.

Getting Off the Plane

“Passengers can choose to get off the plane, however, if they do that the airline is not required to let them back on the plane prior to takeoff,” said Attorney Tracy Brammeier of Chigaco-based Clifford Law Offices, which specializes in airline passenger cases.

Why is this Legal?

“If an airline was to get all the baggage of the flight for every passenger they chose to deplane it would delay the flight even further,” said Brammeier.

Compensation for Delays and Cancellations

The DOT also states that airlines are not required to compensate passengers whose flights are delayed or canceled.

Conclusion

If you’re stuck on the tarmac, remember that you have rights. You’re entitled to food and water after two hours, and you can choose to get off the plane if you so desire. However, be aware that the airline is not required to let you back on the plane prior to takeoff.

FAQs

• What is the maximum time a flight can be delayed on a domestic flight?

Three hours

• What is the maximum time a flight can be delayed on an international flight?

Four hours

• Can I choose to get off the plane if I’m stuck on the tarmac?
• Do I have to be compensated if my flight is delayed or canceled?

No, according to the DOT