Compensation and Reimbursement for Ethiopian Airlines Strike

Flight cancellations or delays due to an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. Fortunately, in many cases, passengers are protected by EU261 regulation. This regulation establishes the rules for compensation and assistance to passengers during airline strikes. In this article, we will look at your rights as a passenger and the process of claiming compensation from the airline.

When Are You Entitled to Ethiopian Airlines Strike Compensation?

EU Regulation 261/2004 protects travelers affected by airline strikes. This regulation obliges the airline to pay compensation during a standard crew strike and a “wildcat” strike. These labor disputes are considered part of operational issues, therefore, the airline is responsible for them.

It is essential to understand that the situation with compensation is complex. Certain strikes may fall under the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by cargo handlers, fire crews, ground staff, etc. In the event of disruptions due to these ground staff, the chances of getting compensation may be significantly reduced. It is crucial to determine exactly which staff is involved in the strike. This directly impacts your right to compensation.

Flight Cancellation Compensation

In cases of flight cancellation due to a strike, the airline must inform travelers of the cancellation at least 14 days before the scheduled departure. If the airline fails to notify you during the specified period, it is obliged to pay compensation to passengers in the amount of up to 600 euros.

It is important to note that the airline is not obligated to issue compensation by providing you with an alternative flight to your final destination. However, if the alternative flight results in a later arrival at the final destination, passengers may be entitled to compensation. The amount of compensation depends on the duration of the delay and the distance of the flight, as displayed in the following table:

Under 2 hours	2-3 hours	3-4 hours	Over 4 hours	Never arrived	Distance
€125	€250	€250	€250	€250	All flights 1,500 km or less
€200	€200	€400	€400	€400	Internal EU flights over 1,500 km
€200	€200	€400	€400	€400	Non-internal EU flights 1,500 km- 3,500 km
€300	€300	€300	€600	€600	Non-internal EU flights over 3,500 km

Flight Delay Compensation

According to the EU261/2004 regulation, if your flight is delayed and you reach your final destination more than three hours later than planned, you are eligible for compensation of up to €600 per passenger. It is important to note that the duration of the delay depends solely on when you reach your final destination, not on how late the plane departed.

The amount of compensation is based on the distance of the flight and the duration of the delay:

Less than 3 hours	Between 3-4 hours	Over 4 hours	Distance
€0	€250	€250	All flights up to 1500 km
€0	€400	€400	All flights between 1500 km and 3500 km
€0	€400	€400	All intra-EU flights over 3500 km
€0	€300	€600	All non-EU flights over 3500 km

Requirements for Ethiopian Airlines Strike Compensation

When a travel disruption occurs, passengers may be entitled to compensation, but certain criteria must be met. It’s crucial to understand these requirements to properly navigate the compensation process:

• Your flight must be covered by the EU261/2004 regulation. This covers all flights leaving from EU airports, regardless of the airline. It also applies to flights arriving in the EU, but only when operated by an EU-based airline.
• A flight cancellation or delay has significantly disrupted your travel plans. This means your flight has been delayed by 3 hours or more at the final destination, or it was cancelled with fewer than 14 days’ notice before the scheduled departure.
• You are required to have a valid reservation and be prepared to travel. This includes having a confirmed booking and all necessary travel documents prepared (passport, visas).
• You need to get to the airport on time. Check-in by the specified time by the airline. If no specific time is provided, arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to stay eligible for compensation.

In case you believe you meet these criteria following a Ethiopian Airlines strike, it’s advisable to document your experience thoroughly and communicate directly with the airline about your compensation claim. Knowing your rights and responsibilities is the first step to potentially receiving compensation for an airline strike.

How to Claim Ethiopian Airlines Strike Compensation

Dealing with flight delays or cancellations due to strikes is always frustrating. This can spoil your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To get compensated for this inconvenience, take the following actions:

1. Complete this form. You’ll need to provide details such as your flight number, date, and the issue you encountered.
2. Let our experts help you. Once you submit the form, our team will take over. We are well-versed in the EU laws thoroughly and will strive to get you your compensation. You are only charged if we win your case.

Following these steps, you’ll obtain the compensation you are entitled to under EU law.

Other Rights in Case of a Flight Strike

In addition to compensation, passengers must know about certain services they can expect to receive from the airline in the event of a flight disruption. These services aim to reduce inconveniences and provide some comfort to passengers during delays or cancellations. Remember that the services we are describing below are included in the airline company’s duty to care for every passenger.

Right to Care

If the flight delay is two hours or more, the airline is obligated to provide affected passengers with certain services to reduce discomfort. Some of the basic services are free beverages and meals. Additionally, the affected passengers have a right to make 2 phone calls and send faxes, or emails for free.

Rebooking or Refunds

If your flight gets cancelled or delayed by over five hours, you are entitled to a full refund or an alternative flight to your final destination. These solutions have some flexibility, which is great because you can choose what works best for you.

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