Flight delays or cancellations caused by an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. However, in many cases, passengers are protected by EU261/2004 regulation. This regulation defines the rules for compensation and assistance for travelers when facing airline strikes. In this article, we will look at your rights as a passenger and how to claim compensation from the airline. When Are You Entitled to Air Canada Strike Compensation? EU Regulation 261/2004 protects travelers affected by airline strikes. This legislation 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 problems, therefore, the airline is responsible for them. It is important to understand that the situation with compensation is complex. Some strikes may qualify for the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by cargo handlers, firefighters, ground staff, etc. In the event of disruptions resulting from these ground staff, the chances of receiving compensation may be significantly reduced. It is essential to determine exactly which personnel is involved in the strike. This directly influences your eligibility for compensation. Flight Cancellation Compensation In the event of flight cancellation due to a strike, the airline must notify travelers 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 passengers in the amount of up to 600 euros. It is essential 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 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 hours2-3 hours3-4 hoursOver 4 hoursNever arrivedDistance€125€250€250€250€250All flights 1,500 km or less€200€200€400€400€400Internal EU flights over 1,500 km€200€200€400€400€400Non-internal EU flights 1,500 km- 3,500 km€300€300€300€600€600Non-internal EU flights over 3,500 km Flight Delay Compensation Under 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 depends on the distance of the flight and the duration of the delay: Less than 3 hoursBetween 3-4 hoursOver 4 hoursDistance€0€250€250All flights up to 1500 km€0€400€400All flights between 1500 km and 3500 km€0€400€400All intra-EU flights over 3500 km€0€300€600All non-EU flights over 3500 km Requirements for Air Canada Strike Compensation When an airline strike occurs, passengers could be entitled to compensation, but certain requirements 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 covers 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 was delayed by 3 hours or more at the final destination, or it was cancelled with fewer than 14 days’ notice before the scheduled departure. You must have a confirmed reservation and be prepared to travel. This includes having a confirmed booking and all necessary travel documents prepared (passport, visas). You need to arrive at the airport on time. Check-in within 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. Should you believe you meet these conditions following a Air Canada strike, it’s advisable to document your experience thoroughly and communicate 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 Canada Strike Compensation Dealing with delayed or cancelled flights due to strikes is always frustrating. Such situations can not only ruin your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To claim compensation for this inconvenience, follow these steps: Fill in our form. You’ll need to provide details like your flight number, date, and the problem you faced. Let our experts help you. Once you submit the form, our team will manage the process. We are well-versed in the EU laws comprehensively and will strive to obtain your rightful compensation. You only pay us if we win your case. Following these steps, you’ll receive 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 the event of a flight disruption. These services aim to reduce inconveniences and give some comfort to passengers during delays or cancellations. Note that the services we are describing below are a part of the airline company’s duty to care for each passenger. Right to Care When 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. Moreover, the affected passengers have a right to make 2 phone calls and send faxes, or emails for free. Rebooking or Refunds If your flight gets cancelled or delayed by more than five hours, you can request a full refund or an alternative flight to your final destination. These solutions offer some flexibility, which is great because you can choose what works best for you.