How long can you be kept in a plane?

Tarmac Trials: Understanding Your Rights as a Grounded Passenger

Imagine yourself aboard a flight, eagerly anticipating your arrival at your destination. However, as the plane touches down, a snag arises, and you find yourself stuck on the tarmac, with no end in sight. The minutes turn into hours, and the once-smooth journey becomes an ordeal of discomfort and uncertainty.

Federal regulations have been established to protect passengers from prolonged and unreasonable tarmac delays. The following guidelines dictate the maximum allowable wait times and the obligations of airlines in such situations:

Domestic Tarmac Delays

• Three Hours or More: If a domestic flight is delayed on the tarmac for three hours or longer, the airline is required to immediately disembark all passengers.

• Food and Water: Within two hours of the tarmac delay, passengers are entitled to receive food and water from the airline.

International Tarmac Delays

• Four Hours or More: The maximum allowable tarmac delay for international flights is four hours. After this time, the airline must disembark all passengers.

• Food and Water: Similar to domestic flights, passengers are entitled to food and water within two hours of the tarmac delay.

Additional Considerations:

• Medical Emergencies: If a passenger experiences a medical emergency during the tarmac delay, the plane must be immediately diverted to the nearest airport for proper medical attention.

• Unsafe Conditions: In the event of unsafe conditions on the tarmac, such as inclement weather or security concerns, the airline may hold the plane on the tarmac for extended periods. However, passengers must be notified of the situation and provided with updates as they become available.

• Passenger Cooperation: While the airline is responsible for ensuring the welfare of passengers during tarmac delays, it is also important for passengers to cooperate with airline staff and follow any instructions given for their safety.

It is crucial to be aware of these regulations and to advocate for your rights as a passenger. If you experience an unreasonable tarmac delay, do not hesitate to contact the airline staff and request immediate disembarkation or relevant provisions. Remember, you have the right to be treated with respect and to have your basic needs met while stranded on the tarmac.