Originally Posted by
mduell
Write the
DOT a note with the timeline. UA may face fines of up to $27,500 per passenger if anyone was forced to stay on the plane for more than 3 hours. Even if they're not fined having that conversation with the DOT may prompt UA to work on their staff selection, improving service in the future.
Might want to read the legislation. Cabin door open, at the gate, is NOT the same as locked up and on the tarmac. Regulations have very specific language that can either hang someone, or let them off the hook. No laws/rules that the DoT has issued would apply here.
Sounds like it was not handeled well, and should be an issue for the carrier, but it in no way falls under the govt's regulation. It is best to inform yourself first prior to filing nusance complaints with a regulator when the regulator does not regulate the scenerio. Let them use their time to regulate things that they have jurisdiction over.
The OP got off the plane. This is different than being locked on a plane with no useable exit. The OP stated others got off the plane. Again, different than being locked on without an exit. An issue for UA, yes, an issue that is regulated by the DoT, again, no. They have specific language in there to prevent complaints like this from bearing their scrutiny.