Passengers may not be on the aircraft on the ground for greater than how many hours without an opportunity to deplane?

• A. 1 hour
• B. 2 hours
• C. 3 hours
• D. 4 hours

Answer: (C)

On a grounded aircraft, there is a regulatory limit on how long passengers may remain onboard without an opportunity to deplane. For domestic flights, that limit is three hours; international flights have a four-hour limit. The purpose is to prevent prolonged on-board delays and protect passenger welfare, with exceptions for safety, security, or air traffic control constraints. When the limit is reached or approaching, crews should provide an opportunity to deplane if feasible and pursue appropriate actions, such as rebooking or alternate arrangements. So, the maximum allowed on the ground without deplaning is three hours.