US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has called for an inquiry into a shocking incident involving Delta Air Lines. On Monday, passengers on a Delta flight endured an unnerving delay on the tarmac in triple-digit heat at the Las Vegas airport. According to reports, the plane sat there for an exhausting four hours. An investigation is underway to figure out how this unsettling event occurred.
Secretary Buttigieg expressed his disbelief and frustration to Reuters on Thursday. He said, “I want to know how it was possible for passengers to be left in triple-digit heat onboard an aircraft for that long.” He found the incident “infuriating” and “shocking.”
Airlines’ Responsibility During Tarmac Delays
According to regulations, during tarmac delays, airlines should ensure that passengers experience comfortable cabin temperatures. Moreover, within three hours of a domestic flight delay, the airline should start moving the plane to a location where passengers can exit.
Secretary Buttigieg pointed out that “even under normal temperatures a tarmac delay is not supposed to go that long.” He emphasized that there are strict rules in place about this, which the department is actively enforcing. In addition, he highlighted the regulations that stipulate maximum cabin temperatures.
Delta’s Response to the Incident
In response to the incident, Delta has stated that they are thoroughly reviewing what happened. During the delay, they revealed, several passengers needed attention from first responders. Moreover, a flight attendant and a passenger were transported to a local hospital.
Delta reported that from the time of initial departure until the flight’s cancellation was just over three hours. The airline also acknowledged that the plane made at least one return to the gate due to heat-related weight and balance problems.
A Fox News producer on Flight 555 from Las Vegas to Atlanta, which was eventually canceled, shared an unsettling account. Fox News reported that passengers endured a 111-degree Fahrenheit heat without any air conditioning. Eventually, the pilot announced that the plane was returning to the gate due to multiple emergencies. Passengers had the option to leave the plane, but they were warned that finding another flight to Atlanta could take days.
Delta expressed their regret for the incident and communicated their apologies directly to the passengers on the flight. They further stated that the passengers received compensatory gestures and were rebooked on other flights.
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