Tarmac Delays Are the Worst. Your Airline Needs to Grant You Rights.

Tarmac delays just may be the most frustrating part of the air travel experience.

Thankfully, travelers in the United States are protected by rights outlined by the United States Department of Transportation. These are your tarmac delay rights in the United States, as well as what to do when your airline does not follow these rules.

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What are tarmac delays?

Tarmac delays are delays that occur when an aircraft is waiting for takeoff, a gate assignment (after landing), or other situation where passengers are unable to disembark.

There are multiple causes of tarmac delays, including:

  • Poor weather
  • Runway traffic
  • Mechanical issues
  • Air traffic control delays
  • Security issues

No matter the cause, they can lead to passenger/flight crew frustration, fatigue, and discomfort. For these reasons, United States air travelers have passenger rights designed to protect them.

U.S tarmac delay passenger rights

Passengers in the United States must be granted the following rights:

  • After 2 hours, food, water, and onboard bathroom access must be granted. Medical care must always be available.
  • After 3 hours, air travelers must be allowed to deplane back into the departures terminal.
  • If outside the United States, the option to deplane must be available after delays of 4 hours.

These rights are not guaranteed under two extenuating circumstances, though:

  • Passenger safety or security concerns
  • Air traffic control denying such a request

In addition to time limits and the right to food, water, and lavatory facilities, passengers are also entitled to periodic notification updates. Presently, airlines are mandated to update passengers at least every 30 minutes that a delay persists. This update must include the reason for the delay, if it is known to the pilots, flight crew, or airline.

These updates should include the anticipated duration of the delay, and airlines should always ensure that passengers are aware of communication options available onboard, such as Wi-Fi or phone services.

What to do during a tarmac delay

Should you find yourself stuck onboard during a tarmac delay, it is important to keep your rights in mind. While you’re not in any danger, these delays can be uncomfortable.

Follow these 3 steps to ensure that the situation remains as comfortable as possible.

1. Stay calm and informed

Though unnerving, all you can do is listen to your flight crew's updates and go with the flow. Sometimes, flight aggregator websites such as Flight Aware have information about delays and anticipated departure times before your airline can update its mobile application, website, or inform passengers.

This said, using your smartphone to check the airline’s app or website for updates is a good idea.

2. Document everything

In the event that you decide to file a complaint with your carrier, you should document everything as the events of your flight unfold. For example, consider keeping track of:

  • The time the delay starts/ends
  • The times that your flight crew provides updates/makes announcements
  • If/when you are offered any refreshments or the opportunity to use the bathroom
  • Other details as necessary

3. Communicate when necessary

Don't hold in your hunger, thirst, or need to use the bathroom. Utilize that flight attendant call button above your seat if necessary. Remember - you are entitled to the rights covered above. If at any point 2 hours passes and you have not been provided a snack or water, calmly remind a flight attendant of your rights.

If your flight ultimately gets canceled, remember to keep receipts and track of any expenses that you incur as a result. They may be added to your complaint for reimbursement/credit.

If your tarmac delay rights are violated

There are times when airlines do not comply with these laws and regulations. If/when this happens, you may opt to remind your flight crew of your rights, particularly if you're still onboard after a delay that hits 3 hours in length.

If you find your rights are violated, you should alwaysfile a complaint (via mail, email, or web portal) after your flight. When you file a complaint:

  • Your airline must respond within 60 calendar days
  • Complaints can be escalated through the U.S. Department of Transportation

Not achieving the resolution you desire? We'll work with you airline on your behalf to earn you the resolution you deserve.

Here is customer service contact information for many of the United States' largest air carriers:

Some airlines are better than others at offering compensation, of course. But generally, Delta and Southwest are known for offering a slightly elevated customer service experience.

I can vouch for Southwest Airlines' policy in particular. Some years ago, my wife and I were on a flight from Fort Myers, FL to Hartford, CT when the airport in Hartford lost power. We were ultimately diverted to Hartford, where we sat on the tarmac for multiple hours. By the time we arrived in Hartford and I checked my email, Southwest had already sent my wife and I flight credits for our trouble.

It was a rare positive display of customer service in an industry known for subpar experience, especially because the power outage was not the fault of Southwest.

How to minimize tarmac delays

While passengers have little control over tarmac delays, taking certain precautions can minimize their impact on their travels. For instance, consider:

  • Choosing direct flights: Opt for direct flights, even if they're slightly more expensive, whenever possible to reduce the risk of delays associated with tight connection times.
  • Travel During Off-Peak Times: Flying during less busy times can reduce the likelihood of tarmac delays due to busy air traffic or airspace
  • Stay Informed: Check your flight status regularly leading up to your departure. Use airline apps and websites for real-time updates.
  • Be Prepared: Carry essential items in your carry-on, such as snacks, water, medications, and entertainment, to stay comfortable during potential delays.

Tarmac delays tend to be more stressful for passengers with connecting flights or longer itineraries, as they can lead travelers to miss flights and become stranded in random airports or cities that they know nothing about.

Typically, in these instances, airlines will help rebook you to the next available flight or itinerary, but you won't receive compensation for delays the airlines have no control over, like weather or ATC delays. If your tarmac delay is caused by a mechanical problem onboard, however, you are much more likely to receive compensation, though you may need to complain in order to receive any.

Of course, we specialize in helping you with this.

Conclusion

Unfortunately, there is not a one size fits all approach to dealing with the dreaded tarmac delay. Instead, the best we can do as passengers is to understand our passenger rights and ensure that they're being met.

Do remember to speak up and take appropriate action if your rights are violated.