3-1-15

Ground Operations Related to Three/Four-Hour Tarmac Rule

JO 7110.65BB, Change 3, effective July 9, 2026 · Official text on faa.gov

When a request is made by the pilot‐in‐command of an aircraft to return to the ramp, gate, or alternate deplaning area due to the Three/Four‐Hour Tarmac Rule:

Provide the requested services as soon as operationally practical, or
Advise the pilot‐in‐command that the requested service cannot be accommodated because it would create a significant disruption to air traffic operations.
Note

Facility procedures, including actions that constitute a significant disruption, vary by airport and must be identified in the facility directive pertaining to the Three/Four‐Hour Tarmac Rule.

Phraseology

(Identification) TAXI TO (ramp, gate, or alternate deplaning area) VIA (route).
or
(Identification) EXPECT A (number) MINUTE DELAY DUE TO (ground and/or landing and/or departing) TRAFFIC,
or
(Identification) UNABLE DUE TO OPERATIONAL DISRUPTION.

Reference

DOT Rule, Enhancing Airline Passenger Protections, 14 CFR Part 259, commonly referred to as the Three/Four‐Hour Tarmac Rule.