New procedures on tarmac delays to be implemented

MANILA, Philippines – The Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) is set to issue a resolution to implement deplaning procedures for airline passengers in case of tarmac delays exceeding two hours.

Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade yesterday ordered the CAB to come up with a resolution to avoid inconvenience experienced by airline passengers.

Tugade said the move was in response to recent events that have caused inconvenience to passengers who were made to stay in an aircraft for more than four hours due to delays and diversion of flights.

The CAB, an attached agency of the Department of Transportation, said it would issue a resolution providing that passenger deplaning procedures should start two hours after tarmac delay.

“During the last board meeting of CAB, I instructed them to address the comfort of passengers,” Tugade said.

Under the draft resolution, the CAB said foreign and domestic airlines should start deplaning passengers after two hours of tarmac delay.

If the airlines fail to deplane within the allotted time, they should provide the passengers food and potable water.

Airline companies should also assure passengers of the availability of lavatory facilities and medical aid.

“After deplaning, airlines must provide accommodation when necessary, food and communication services, and give timely and accurate update to passengers regarding the status of their flights,” the CAB said.

Air carriers will also be required to assign a point person to monitor the effects of tarmac delay and address passenger queries.

In case of non-compliance, penalties and sanctions under Republic Act 776 or the Civil Aeronautics Act will be imposed on the airlines.

The CAB plans to publish the resolution today. It will take effect 15 days after publication.