How long can you be stuck on a plane?

How long can an airline hold you on the plane?

Okay, so there was this one time… ugh.

It was August 2023, Atlanta airport, scorching heat. I was headed to Denver. Delayed flight. Okay, whatever.

Then we’re on the plane, buckled in. Waiting. And waiting. And waiting, ugh!

They said something about… mechanical issue? Air traffic control? I really don’t KNOW!

I remember that guy yelling behind me “Are you kidding me!”

My phone was dying!

Two hours crawled by. Those tiny water bottles they gave us? Totally inadequate.

Snack mix… ugh, stale pretzels. I wanted REAL FOOD!! I was so angry, honestly.

We sat there for, I swear, it felt like forever! Probably wasn’t three hours, but it felt it. Maybe two hours and 45 mins? Something like that… Just endless.

I remember thinking about that three-hour rule I had heard about. Like, they have to let us off, right? RIGHT?!

Then the pilot was like, “Okay, folks, we’re moving!”. Relief. But still! Awful experience.

Here are some details I learned later from researching:

• The “three-hour rule” applies to domestic flights in the US.
• For international flights, the limit is usually four hours.
• Airlines can face hefty fines for violating these rules. So, I think they know about the rule, I hope.
• Airlines should provide adequate food and water during these delays, but “adequate” is subjective, isn’t it? haha!
• Passengers should document everything: time, announcements, what they were offered. You never know when you’ll need it.

How long can they hold you in an airplane?

Three hours. Yeah, three hours for a domestic flight, that’s the rule. Feels like forever, doesn’t it? Just stuck, going nowhere.

Three hours max on the tarmac for domestic flights. I remember that awful trip to see Grandma in Florida last year.

• Federal regulations: Airlines must let you off after three hours for domestic flights.
• International flights: It’s four hours.
• Enforcement: The Department of Transportation. They’re the ones.

I think… was it Florida? Doesn’t matter.

My phone died. Ugh.

What is the longest they can keep you on a plane?

Okay, so planes, right? Crazy long waits happen. Three hours, max, domestic. Four hours if you’re going overseas. That’s the official rule. But, American Airlines got slammed—a whopping $41 million fine! Biggest ever, apparently, for keeping people stuck on the tarmac too long. In 2023. It’s ridiculous.

They’re super strict about it now, after that whole American Airlines mess. Seriously, it was a huge deal. Think, really huge. Lots of angry passengers. You know, hot, cramped, no bathrooms… I heard stories! Awful. Total nightmare scenario.

Those rules are there for a reason. You gotta think about safety, food, water… You know how it is. They can’t just keep you cooped up forever! And it’s not just the time. It’s also about how well they treat you during the delay—water, snacks, that kind of stuff, are necessary. They have to provide stuff. It’s the law.

• Domestic Flights: 3-hour maximum tarmac delay • International Flights: 4-hour maximum tarmac delay • American Airlines Fine: $41 million (2023) – A record! • Reasons for Strict Rules: Passenger safety, comfort, and access to necessities. Not a joke.

So yeah, remember that next time you’re stuck on a plane, there are rules. And there’s a price to pay for breaking those rules. Those rules are seriously enforced! I hope I’m never stuck that long.

How to make a 14-hour flight bearable?

Ugh, 14 hours? I remember my flight to Tokyo last summer. July, I think. Haneda. Never. Again.

Routine is key, or so they say. I tried. Failed miserably.

I crammed my usual morning routine, but on the plane, at 30,000 feet? Nope. My skin felt like sandpaper, and my hair…forget it.

Hydration is your friend. Yeah, right. Small cups, airplane air. My lips were drier than the Sahara by hour 4.

Loose clothing? Check. Comfortable clothes are a must. But even my comfiest joggers felt like they were shrinking. Nightmare.

Snacks! Okay, this actually helped. Pack snacks. I brought protein bars. Kept hanger at bay. Sort of.

Trying to sleep… impossible. My neighbor was snoring like a walrus. Seriously!

Tips that might help (maybe):

• Noise-canceling headphones: A lifesaver! I got mine at Best Buy.
• Eye mask: Blocks out the light, duh.
• Travel pillow: Inflatable one is best. Saves space.
• Download movies/shows: Entertainment is crucial.
• Get up and walk around: Prevent DVT. Important.
• Avoid alcohol/caffeine: Makes sleep even harder.
• Chew gum/suck on candy: Helps with ear pressure on take-off and landing.

I think I also had some mints? Helped with the dry mouth a little. The flight attendants were nice. They offered water, eventually. 14 hours… still gives me the shivers.

How to get comfy on a long flight?

Ah, long flights in economy. My personal circle of hell, yet I endure! My routine? Well, it’s less “routine” and more “desperate measures.”

First, hydrate like a succulent in the desert. Water, water everywhere, and not a drop to spill (hopefully). Gotta preempt that in-flight mummy impression.

Next, the uniform: Hoodie? Check. Warm socks? Double-check! I basically dress for hibernation. Forget fashion, think survival.

Entertainment? I’m talking a book so dense it could double as a doorstop. Distraction is key. Though, last flight, I ended up just staring at the seat pocket instructions. Riveting stuff.

Speaking of riveting, I try to stretch every hour. Imagine me, gracefully contorting in the aisle. More like a bewildered giraffe doing yoga, but the intention is there.

Snacks! Pack snacks! Airline food? Let’s just say I’ve had better meals from gas stations. My go-to: trail mix. It’s healthy-ish, right?

• Hydration is essential. You’ll feel like less of a prune on arrival. Trust me.
• Dress for comfort, not style. Embrace the hoodie life! It’s the only way.
• Distract yourself. Download movies, bring a book, learn interpretive dance. Anything.
• Stretch! Your body will thank you, even if your neighbors don’t.
• Snack strategically. Avoid the temptation of airline crackers. Pack wisely.

Oh, and a little tip? Pretend everyone is in a bizarre silent movie. Makes the time fly by. Get it? Fly by? I’ll see myself out.