DOT THREE-HOUR TARMAC DELAY RULE

DOT - Dept. of Transportation announced the new rules governing length of time for airline tarmac delays.  There will be a three-hour limit for domestic flights, unless airport operations would be disrupted, safety- related or security-related impediments would occur.   International flights length of tarmac delay is determined by the individual carrier for a set number of hours.   The airline will assure passengers have adequate food, water and functioning bathrooms no later than two hours after the airplane leaves the gate or touches down.  Adequate medical treatment will be made available if needed.    Failure to follow the new guidelines would result in a fine for the airlines in the amount of $27,500 per passenger for each violation of the three-hour limit.  The rule takes effect in approximately 100 days into 2010.   After sitting in a plane on a tarmac for six hours we can appreciate the new rules.  Thank you.