Compensation and Reimbursement for Vietnam Airlines Strike

Flight cancellations or delays caused by an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. Fortunately, in many cases, passengers are covered under EU261/2004 regulation. This regulation establishes the rules for compensation and assistance for travelers in cases of airline strikes. In this article, we will look at passenger rights and the process of claiming compensation from the airline.

When Are You Entitled to Vietnam Airlines Strike Compensation?

European Union Regulation 261/2004 protects passengers affected by airline strikes. This regulation obliges the airline to pay compensation in the event of 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 important to understand that the situation with compensation is complex. Certain strikes may be classified as the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by cargo handlers, firefighters, ground staff, etc. When faced with disruptions due to these ground staff, the chances of getting compensation may be significantly reduced. It is crucial to identify exactly which personnel is involved in the strike. This directly affects your eligibility for 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 doesn’t inform you during the specified period, it is obliged to pay compensation to travelers in the amount of up to 600 euros.

It is crucial to note that the airline is not obligated to pay 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 could 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 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 3 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 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 Vietnam Airlines Strike Compensation

When an airline strike occurs, passengers may be entitled to compensation, but specific criteria must be met. It is crucial to understand these criteria to effectively manage the compensation process:

• Your flight must be covered by the EU261 regulation. This applies to all flights leaving from EU airports, regardless of the airline. It also covers 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 was delayed by three hours or more at the final destination, or it was cancelled with less than 14 days’ notice before the scheduled departure.
• You must have a valid reservation and be ready to travel. This includes having a valid booking and all necessary travel documents prepared (passport, visas).
• You need to get to the airport on time. Complete check-in by the time specified by your airline. If a time isn’t specified, arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to stay eligible for compensation.

In case you believe you meet these conditions following a Vietnam Airlines strike, it’s advisable to document your experience thoroughly and get in touch directly with the airline about your compensation claim. Understanding your rights and responsibilities is the first step to potentially receiving compensation for an airline strike.

How to Claim Vietnam Airlines Strike Compensation

Dealing with flight cancellations or delays due to strikes is always frustrating. Such situations can ruin not just your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To seek compensation for this inconvenience, proceed with these steps:

1. Fill in our form. You’ll need to provide details such as your flight number, date, and the problem you faced.
2. Let our experts help you. Once you submit the form, our team will take over. We know the EU laws comprehensively and will do our best to obtain your rightful compensation. You are only charged 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 provide some comfort to passengers during delays or cancellations. Keep in mind that the services we are describing below are included in the airline company’s duty to care for each passenger.

Right to Care

If the flight delay is 2+ hours, the airline is required 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 e-mails for free.

Rebooking or Refunds

If your flight is cancelled or delayed by over five hours, you have the right 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.

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