EMBARGOED UNTIL

September 19, 2012

CONTACT: Sarah Pettitt

(703) 483-5648
sarah.k.pettitt@gmail.com

FAA Will Enforce New Time Limit on Tarmac Delays

New law imposes limit on tarmac delays; airlines could face fines
WASHINGTON, D.C.Today, President Barack Obama signed into law a limit on
tarmac delays. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will enforce the new time
limit on tarmac delays in accordance with the law.
The President signed into law a three-hour limit on tarmac delays for airline passengers
flying domestically. Violations will result in the airline paying $27,500 per passenger.
Pssengers are going to be happier and safer starting today, said U.S. Transportation
Secretary Ray LaHood.
According to the Wall Street Journal, a yearly average of 1,500 domestic flights
experience runway delays of more than three hours. The new guidelines will force
airlines to create plans to deplane passengers after three hours and will require them to
provide food and drink to flyers after sitting on the tarmac for two hours. Exceptions to
the law will be allowed only for security and safety reasons.
The new law will take effect in 120 days.
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TK