New Rules Ban Unending Tarmac Delays--Government Done Right

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Even if the delay-causing and delay-solving circumstances are within the control of a single individual airline at any one time, why should the fine be paid to the government? If the airlines are unreasonably inconveniencing its own passengers, then let the airline pay the money to the passengers.

Steve K. of NJ 5:15PM December 28, 2009

This isn't as good as it sounds. People need to understand that these cases are rare: http://tinyurl.com/ykud7bo. I think this will make cancellations more frequent and cause even worse delays when planes are making the taxi to and from the tarmac! Horrible. I do agree, however, that they should stock up on more drinks/snacks but honestly will they? Costs are already high enough!

KennyL of FL 3:42PM December 28, 2009

passengers (flying coach today is like being herded onto a boxcar bound for Auschwitz), I do have to say this in their defense. A single airline could not have taken the step of releasing their passengers from captivity without losing their place in the queue of aircraft waiting to take off. It took Federal action so that all airlines would be penalized equally for treating their passengers humanely.
One way to end this insanity is to boost the takeoff and landing fees so that airlines would be forced to use larger aircraft operating less frequently, lessening airport congestion. Granted, if you wanted to leave at 2 pm, you might have a choice of only two carriers rather than five, but at least you would depart and arrive on time.

Former Airline Station Chief of TX 1:51PM December 28, 2009

I & my family quit flying because of the way airlines treat people... I suppose Republicans oppose this new rule???

Jon of MN 12:02AM December 23, 2009

My husband and I were stranded on the tarmac for over four hours after a long flight from Hawaii. We missed our connecting flight, the airplane restroom was a mess and they ran out of drinks. After awhile the flight staff stopped being so nice and understanding to the passengers. It's a shame the government had to step in and make a policy that should have been common sense for airlines who supposedly care about customer service and want our business.

Juanita of MI 5:42PM December 22, 2009