Flight cancellations or delays due to 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 assistance and compensation to passengers during airline strikes. In this article, we will look at your rights as a passenger and the process of claiming compensation from the airline.
When Are You Entitled to Air Cairo Strike Compensation?
European Union Regulation 261/2004 protects passengers 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 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 baggage handlers, fire crews, ground personnel, etc. In the event of disruptions caused by these ground crew members, the chances of getting compensation may be significantly reduced. It is crucial to determine exactly which crew is involved in the strike. This directly affects your right to compensation.
Flight Cancellation Compensation
In cases 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 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 might 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 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 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 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 Air Cairo Strike Compensation
When a flight disruption occurs, passengers may be entitled to compensation, but specific criteria must be met. It’s crucial to understand these requirements 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 handled by an EU-based airline.
- A flight cancellation or delay has significantly disrupted your travel plans. This means your flight was delayed by 3 hours or more at the final destination, or it was cancelled with less than 14 days’ notice before the scheduled departure.
- You are required to have a confirmed reservation and be prepared to travel. This includes having a valid booking and all essential 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 maintain eligibility for compensation.
Should you believe you meet these requirements following a Air Cairo 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 receiving compensation for an airline strike.
How to Claim Air Cairo Strike Compensation
Dealing with flight cancellations or delays due to strikes is always frustrating. This can ruin not just your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To get compensated for this inconvenience, follow these steps:
- Complete this form. You’ll need to provide details like 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 know the EU laws well and will strive to secure your compensation. You only incur a fee if we win your case.
Following these steps, you will secure the compensation you are entitled to under EU law.
Other Rights in Case of a Flight Strike
In addition to compensation, passengers must 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. Note that the services we are describing below fall under the airline company’s duty to care for each 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 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 e-mails for free.
Rebooking or Refunds
If your flight gets 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 offer some flexibility, which is great because you can choose what works best for you.