Flight delays or cancellations due to an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. Fortunately, in many cases, passengers are protected by EU261/2004 regulation. This regulation outlines the rules for assistance and compensation to passengers during airline strikes. In this article, we will look at your rights as a passenger and the steps to seek compensation from the airline.
When Are You Entitled to Aerolíneas Argentinas Strike Compensation?
European Union Regulation 261/2004 protects travelers affected by airline strikes. This legislation obliges the airline to issue compensation in the event 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 essential to understand that the situation with compensation is complex. Certain strikes may fall under the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by baggage handlers, firefighters, ground personnel, etc. When faced with disruptions due to these ground staff, the chances of receiving compensation may be significantly reduced. It is crucial to identify exactly which personnel is involved in the strike. This directly impacts your eligibility for compensation.
Flight Cancellation Compensation
In the event 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 doesn’t inform you within the specified period, it is obliged to pay compensation to travelers 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 is based 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 regulation, if your flight is delayed and you reach your final destination more than 3 hours later than planned, 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 took off.
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 Aerolíneas Argentinas Strike Compensation
When an airline strike occurs, passengers could be eligible for compensation, but certain criteria must be met. It’s 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 departing 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 delay or cancellation 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 14 days’ notice before the scheduled departure.
- You must have a confirmed reservation and be ready to travel. This includes having a valid booking and all essential travel documents prepared (passport, visas).
- You need to get to the airport on time. Complete check-in by the time specified by the 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 criteria following a Aerolíneas Argentinas 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 towards potentially obtaining compensation for an airline strike.
How to Claim Aerolíneas Argentinas Strike Compensation
Dealing with delayed or cancelled flights due to strikes is always frustrating. This can spoil your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To get compensated for this inconvenience, proceed with these steps:
- Fill in our form. You’ll need to provide details including your flight number, date, and what went wrong.
- Let our experts help you. Once you submit the form, our team will handle the rest. We are well-versed in the EU laws thoroughly and will strive 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 need to 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 give some comfort to passengers during delays or cancellations. Remember that the services we are describing below are a part of the airline company’s duty to care for every 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 calls and send faxes, or e-mails for free.
Rebooking or Refunds
If your flight gets cancelled or delayed by 5+ hours, you have the right to a full refund or an alternative flight to your final destination. These options offer some flexibility, which is great because you can choose what works best for you.