US airlines to face fines for long delays
- Source: Global Times
- [00:20 December 23 2009]
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US airlines could face stiff fines for stranding passengers aboard grounded planes for more than three hours, according to a regulation that officials said Monday was aimed at upholding passenger rights.
The US Transportation Department initiative tries to address public and government frustration with lengthy runway delays, especially those that leave passengers without food, water or adequate bathroom facilities.
"Airline passengers have rights, and these new rules will require airlines to live up to their obligation to treat their customers fairly," Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said.
For the first time, the government will require airlines to let passengers get off planes that have been at a gate or on a taxiway waiting to take off or get access to a terminal.
Exceeding the three-hour limit could result in fines of up to $27,000 per passenger, the Transportation Department said.
Airlines also would have to ensure that passengers get food, water and adequate bathroom facilities during long delays.
There were 1,100 tarmac delays of at least three hours between October 2008 and Octo-ber 2009, official data showed. There were more than 7 million flights during that period.
Reuters
