IAPA endorses DOT plan to cap tarmac delays for U.S. domestic flights; urges implementation of Tarmac Delay Task Force recommendations

Issue
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a ruling that will cap tarmac delays for U.S. domestic flights at 3 hours before passengers are allowed to deplane. The ruling comes in advance of legislation pending in Congress and goes steps beyond by imposing fines of up to $27,500 per passenger for violations. The DOT, ruling to take effect 120 days from its publication in the Federal Register on December 21, 2009, provides passenger protections against chronically delayed flights; requires airlines to develop and publish contingency plans for lengthy tarmac delays; mandates information on flight delays on airline Web sites; and requires carriers to adopt, publish and audit customer service plans. Most noteworthy is a rule that limits tarmac delays to three hours for domestic flights before passengers are allowed to deplane.

Slot auctions at New York airports proposed by the U.S. Department of Transportation

Issue
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is moving forward with its plans to auction off up to 10% of takeoff and landing slots at New York City airports to help with congestion issues at the notoriously crowded airports. Court challenges from airlines, agencies such as the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and airline groups such as the Air Transport Association (ATA) have temporarily blocked this action, proposed for January, 2009.

Airspace and navigation advances must continue despite traffic decline

Issue
The United States and Europe are grappling with airspace and congestion issues that threaten to choke their respective aviation industries. NextGen (U.S.) and SESAR (Europe) are aimed at addressing airspace, navigation technology and reducing fuel consumption and harmful emissions. The success of both programs depends on funding and commitment by all stakeholders in the aviation industry.