What does the term 'Extended Ground Delay' imply for flights?

The term 'Extended Ground Delay' specifically refers to the situation where an aircraft is held on the ground for a significant period before it takes flight. This delay can occur due to a variety of operational reasons, such as waiting for a slot to take off, coordinating gate assignments, or managing air traffic control requirements.

When an extended ground delay is announced, it indicates that the aircraft will remain at the departure airport for an extended time, which can lead to inconveniences for passengers, including prolonged waiting times. This situation is different from delays in boarding or external weather conditions, as it specifically emphasizes the waiting period on the ground rather than the conditions that may have caused or contributed to that waiting period.