Source: Elines

As a result of discussions between the Company and AFA, the parties have agreed to a settlement on MEC 8-09 – Flight Time versus Holding Time as follows:

For the purposes of interpreting Section 2.P. of our Contract:

Definitions:

1. "Normal unloading point" includes any gate position with or without a jet bridge where aircraft typically park to load/unload passengers at a particular airport even if that place is not the intended destination of the flight in question.
2. "Operational reasons" includes but is not limited to mechanical issues, refueling, weather or the removal of an ill or disruptive passenger.

Scenarios:

1. When an aircraft returns to a "normal unloading point" at the airport of departure, holding time will apply.
2. When an aircraft makes an unscheduled stop for operational reasons and the aircraft parks at a place, which is not a normal unloading point, and passenger access/egress is prohibited then flight time shall continue uninterrupted.
3. When an aircraft makes an unscheduled stop and parks at a normal unloading point which eventually becomes its unloading point and governmental authorities require passengers to remain onboard to wait for customs and/or immigration facilities to become available, then holding time will apply while awaiting passenger egress.
4. When an aircraft makes an unscheduled stop for operational reasons and governmental authorities deny permission for passenger egress then flight time shall continue uninterrupted until the aircraft departs for the scheduled destination

Should you have additional questions, please contact your Local Council Office.