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 for travelers 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 Air Arabia Maroc Strike Compensation?
European Union Regulation 261/2004 protects travelers affected by airline strikes. This regulation obliges the airline to issue compensation during a standard crew strike and a “wildcat” strike. These labor disputes are considered part of operational issues, as a result, the airline is responsible for them.
It is important 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 personnel, etc. When faced with disruptions caused by these ground staff, the chances of obtaining compensation may be significantly reduced. It is crucial to identify exactly which staff is involved in the strike. This directly influences your eligibility for compensation.
Flight Cancellation Compensation
In cases 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 crucial 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 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
Under 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 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 arrive at 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 Air Arabia Maroc 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 requirements to effectively manage the compensation process:
- Your flight must be covered by the EU261 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 handled by an EU-based airline.
- A flight delay or cancellation 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 fourteen days’ notice before the scheduled departure.
- You are required to have a confirmed 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 the airline. If a time isn’t specified, arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to maintain eligibility for compensation.
In case you believe you meet these conditions following a Air Arabia Maroc strike, it’s advisable to document your experience thoroughly and get in touch directly with the airline about your compensation claim. Being aware of your rights and responsibilities is the first step to potentially obtaining compensation for an airline strike.
How to Claim Air Arabia Maroc Strike Compensation
Dealing with flight cancellations or delays due to strikes is always frustrating. This can spoil your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To claim compensation for this inconvenience, follow these steps:
- Complete 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 handle the rest. We are well-versed in the EU laws thoroughly and will strive to secure your compensation. You only pay us if we win your case.
Following these steps, you’ll 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 provide some comfort to passengers during delays or cancellations. Keep in mind 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 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 emails 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.