Because of construction that will close JFK's longest runway, jetBlue is seeking an exemption from the prohibition of holding passengers on the tarmac for more than three hours. If approved, jetBlue would be able to hold pax on a plane on the ground for more than three hours.
Is an unexpected runway closure enough reason to hold pax for more than three hours? I think three hours is long enough to begin with, irrespective of any runway closure.