Originally Posted by
easyflyer83
I think the reasons why you were boarded are well covered by previous posters. It is a prudent thing to do.
As for service on the ground, at my carrier we do water services in these situations, it's just good customer service. Offering a full service is not impossible but can be challenging due to needing to guard the doors and then there is the need to be ready to go at a moments notice. But again, it does happen at my carrier from time to time.
For a route of the that length (3 hours), refreshment vouchers should be handed out if in the terminal. If onboard, a complimentary drink and/or snack is warranted. Two hours delay is the threshold for shorter routes. Again, at my carrier though, the senior crew are empowered to offer complimentary service, if they believe it to be warranted, on delays shorter than those. And yes, it's an LCC.
I contacted the Commission for Aviation Regulation just now and they state Under Regulation EC261 Article 6 subsection 1a and Article 9 care and assistance it states what is expected of the airline in case of delay. However if the aircraft is on stand with doors closed under the EU regulation (in this case of providing water/juice and a light snack) is not enforceable. If the airline does not board the passengers care and assistance is enforceable.