Flight delays or cancellations due to an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. However, in many cases, passengers are protected by EU261/2004 regulation. This regulation defines the rules for compensation and assistance to passengers in cases of airline strikes. In this article, we will look at passenger rights and the steps to seek compensation from the airline.
When Are You Entitled to LASER Airlines Strike Compensation?
EU Regulation 261/2004 protects passengers affected by airline strikes. This legislation obliges the airline to issue compensation in case of a standard crew strike and a “wildcat” strike. These labor disputes are considered part of operational problems, consequently, the airline is responsible for them.
It is important to understand that the situation with compensation is complex. Some strikes may be classified as the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by cargo handlers, fire crews, ground staff, etc. In the event of disruptions due to these ground crew members, the chances of obtaining compensation may be significantly reduced. It is crucial to identify exactly which crew is involved in the strike. This directly influences your right to compensation.
Flight Cancellation Compensation
In the event of flight cancellation due to a strike, the airline must inform passengers 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 essential 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 is based on the duration of the delay and the distance of the flight, as shown 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 arrive at your final destination more than three hours later than scheduled, you are entitled to compensation of up to €600 per passenger. It is important to note that the duration of the delay depends solely on when you arrive at your final destination, not on how late the plane departed.
The amount of compensation depends 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 LASER Airlines Strike Compensation
When a travel disruption occurs, passengers could be entitled to compensation, but specific 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 applies to all flights leaving from EU airports, regardless of the airline. It also applies to flights arriving in the EU, but only when handled 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 must 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 arrive at the airport on time. Check-in by the specified time by your airline. If a time isn’t specified, arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to stay eligible for compensation.
If you believe you meet these requirements following a LASER Airlines strike, it’s advisable to document your experience thoroughly and communicate directly with the airline about your compensation claim. Understanding your rights and responsibilities is the first step towards potentially receiving compensation for an airline strike.
How to Claim LASER Airlines Strike Compensation
Dealing with cancelled or delayed flights due to strikes is always frustrating. Such situations can not only ruin your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To claim compensation for this inconvenience, take the following actions:
- Fill in our form. You’ll need to provide details such as your flight number, date, and what went wrong.
- Let our experts help you. Once you submit the form, our team will take over. We understand the EU laws comprehensively and will do our best to obtain your rightful compensation. You only incur a fee if we win your case.
Following these steps, you will obtain the compensation you are entitled to under EU law.
Other Rights in Case of a Flight Strike
In addition to compensation, passengers should know about certain services they can expect to receive from the airline in case of a flight disruption. These services aim to reduce inconveniences and give some comfort to passengers during delays or cancellations. Note that the services we are describing below fall under the airline company’s duty to care for every passenger.
Right to Care
When the flight delay is two hours or more, the airline is required to provide affected passengers with certain services to reduce discomfort. Some of the basic services include free beverages and meals. Additionally, the affected passengers have a right to make two phone calls and send faxes, or emails for free.
Rebooking or Refunds
If your flight is cancelled or delayed by over five hours, you are entitled to a full refund or an alternative flight to your final destination. These options have some flexibility, which is great because you can choose what works best for you.
Recent Flight Delays and Cancellations
Was your flight delayed or cancelled due to the strike? Check our table for the latest flight delays and cancellations. Assess your right to compensation using our claim checker, and let us protect your rights and pursue compensation for you.
Did not find your flight in our table? Try our compensation form, and we will check it for you.
Date | Airline (Flight number) | Route | Status | Your compensation |
---|---|---|---|---|
16.04.202518:40 | LASER Airlines 970 | Caracas (CCS) Barcelona (BLA) | delayed | Refunds |
09.04.202518:40 | LASER Airlines 970 | Caracas (CCS) Barcelona (BLA) | delayed | Refunds |
07.04.202518:20 | LASER Airlines 905 | Porlamar (PMV) Caracas (CCS) | delayed | Refunds |
07.04.202515:05 | LASER Airlines 903 | Porlamar (PMV) Caracas (CCS) | delayed | Refunds |
01.04.202510:00 | LASER Airlines 930 | Caracas (CCS) La Fria (LFR) | delayed | Refunds |
30.03.202516:30 | LASER Airlines 904 | Caracas (CCS) Porlamar (PMV) | delayed | Refunds |
25.03.202510:00 | LASER Airlines 930 | Caracas (CCS) La Fria (LFR) | delayed | Refunds |
12.03.202518:40 | LASER Airlines 970 | Caracas (CCS) Barcelona (BLA) | delayed | Refunds |