Record-breaking heat and airline delays have created a nightmare for travelers this summer, as they have been stuck on airplanes for hours waiting to take off. Passengers on a United Airlines flight from Newark to Rome experienced a seven-hour wait on the airport apron on July 2, leading to frustration and anger among passengers. In a viral TikTok video, one passenger claimed they were “treated like animals” and not given water or snacks during the delay. This incident, known as a tarmac delay, has brought increased scrutiny to airlines and their treatment of passengers.
The United Airlines incident prompted a media frenzy, with the airline eventually releasing a statement acknowledging the delay and offering snacks and beverages to the affected passengers. However, the passenger’s son later posted a response video on TikTok, claiming that United’s statement was false and that the airline was unhelpful in rebooking their trip and compensating them for their experience.
This scenario is not limited to United Airlines. In May, an American Airlines flight was stranded at DFW Airport for over three hours, and in July, a Delta flight sat on the tarmac in Las Vegas for nearly three hours while temperatures reached 111 degrees. The Department of Transportation (DOT) has launched investigations into these incidents, as well as the United Airlines delay. If wrongdoing is found, the airlines can be fined. American Airlines was recently fined a record $4.1 million for tarmac delay violations.
According to federal law, airlines are required to have emergency contingency plans in place for tarmac delays. These plans include providing passengers with the opportunity to deplane after a certain time, offering food and water, maintaining comfortable cabin temperatures, and providing updates to passengers. However, there is no specific temperature range that airlines must maintain, which has led to concerns about the comfort and safety of passengers during tarmac delays.
If passengers find themselves stuck in a tarmac delay, they can demand what they are entitled to under the law and file a complaint with the DOT if their needs are not met. It is also recommended to bring snacks and water in case of delays. The process for rebooking or compensation after a flight is lightly regulated and varies by airline, so reaching out to customer service may help in obtaining further compensation.
Despite these incidents, tarmac delays do not appear to be becoming more frequent. With approximately 45,000 flights occurring each day in the U.S., the FAA and consumer report data indicate that tarmac delays are still relatively rare. However, the recent fines imposed on American Airlines and United Airlines highlight the importance of ensuring the well-being of passengers during delays and holding airlines accountable for any violations.
Overall, the combination of extreme heat and airline delays has created a challenging situation for travelers this summer. Increased scrutiny from aviation regulators and passengers on social media is pushing airlines to improve their treatment of passengers during tarmac delays and ensure that they adhere to the regulations set by the DOT.
Original Story at www.stripes.com – 2023-09-11 03:40:29
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