What is the domestic tarmac delay threshold before deplaning is allowed?

• A. 3 hours
• B. 2 hours
• C. 4 hours
• D. 5 hours

Answer: (A)

Domestic tarmac delays are capped at three hours for flights within the United States. After the plane lands and remains on the tarmac with doors closed, passengers must be deplaned within three hours, unless safety, security, or air‑traffic‑control reasons prevent it. This rule exists to protect passengers from lengthy periods on the tarmac and requires airlines to provide basic amenities (food, water, access to restrooms) and ongoing updates during the delay. For international flights, the threshold is four hours. So, the three-hour mark is the limit for deplaning on domestic routes.