Flight delays or cancellations due to an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. However, in many cases, passengers are covered under EU261/2004 regulation. This regulation outlines the rules for assistance and compensation to passengers in cases of airline strikes. In this article, we will look at passenger rights and how to claim compensation from the airline.
When Are You Entitled to Azerbaijan Airlines Strike Compensation?
European Union 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 problems, as a result, the airline is responsible for them.
It is crucial to understand that the situation with compensation is complex. Some strikes may qualify for the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by baggage handlers, firefighters, ground personnel, etc. In the event of disruptions due to these ground staff, the chances of receiving compensation may be significantly reduced. It is crucial to determine exactly which crew is involved in the strike. This directly impacts 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 doesn’t inform you within 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 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 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
Under the EU261 regulation, if your flight is delayed and you arrive at your final destination more than 3 hours later than planned, you are eligible for compensation of up to €600 per passenger. It’s crucial to understand that the duration of the delay depends solely on when you reach your final destination, not on how late the plane took off.
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 Azerbaijan Airlines Strike Compensation
When a travel disruption occurs, passengers could be eligible for compensation, but specific requirements must be met. It is important to understand these criteria to effectively manage the compensation process:
- Your flight must be covered by the EU261/2004 regulation. This covers all flights departing from EU airports, regardless of the airline. It also covers 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 three hours or more at the final destination, or it was cancelled with less than fourteen days’ notice before the scheduled departure.
- You are required to have a valid reservation and be ready to travel. This includes having a valid booking and all essential travel documents ready (passport, visas).
- You need to get to the airport on time. Check-in within the time specified by your airline. If no time is given, arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to maintain eligibility for compensation.
Should you believe you meet these criteria following a Azerbaijan 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 obtaining compensation for an airline strike.
How to Claim Azerbaijan Airlines Strike Compensation
Dealing with flight delays or cancellations due to strikes is always frustrating. Such situations can ruin not just your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To get compensated for this inconvenience, proceed with these steps:
- Complete our form. You’ll need to provide details like your flight number, date, and the issue you encountered.
- Let our experts help you. Once you submit the form, our team will handle the rest. We know the EU laws comprehensively and will strive to get you your compensation. You only pay us if we win your case.
Following these steps, secure the compensation you are entitled to under EU law.
Other Rights in Case of a Flight Strike
In addition to compensation, passengers need to 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. 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 obligated to provide affected passengers with certain services to alleviate discomfort. Some of the basic services are free beverages and meals. Moreover, the affected passengers have a right to make two phone calls and send faxes, or e-mails for free.
Rebooking or Refunds
If your flight is cancelled or delayed by more than 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 |
---|---|---|---|---|
13.04.202503:00 | AZAL Azerbaijan Airlines 8050 | (NQZ) (GYD) | delayed | Refunds |
10.04.202515:55 | AZAL Azerbaijan Airlines 8106 | Istanbul (SAW) (GYD) | delayed | Refunds |
07.04.202502:10 | AZAL Azerbaijan Airlines 646 | Ekaterinburg (SVX) (GYD) | delayed | Refunds |
07.04.202500:00 | AZAL Azerbaijan Airlines 9001 | Rijeka (RJK) (GYD) | delayed | Refunds |
06.04.202521:15 | AZAL Azerbaijan Airlines 645 | (GYD) Ekaterinburg (SVX) | delayed | Refunds |
03.04.202516:00 | AZAL Azerbaijan Airlines 6351 | Doha (DOH) (GYD) | delayed | Refunds |
21.03.202522:00 | AZAL Azerbaijan Airlines 9902 | (GYD) Rijeka (RJK) | delayed | Refunds |