Compensation and Reimbursement for Air China Strike

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 outlines the rules for assistance and compensation to passengers in cases of 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 China Strike Compensation?

European Union Regulation 261/2004 protects travelers affected by airline strikes. This law 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, consequently, 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 baggage handlers, fire crews, ground personnel, etc. In the event of disruptions resulting from these ground staff, the chances of obtaining compensation may be significantly reduced. It is crucial to determine exactly which personnel is involved in the strike. This directly influences your right to 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 fails to notify you during the specified period, it is obliged to pay compensation to travelers in the amount of up to 600 euros.

It is important 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 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 EU261/2004 regulation, if your flight is delayed and you arrive at your final destination more than 3 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 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 Air China Strike Compensation

When an airline strike occurs, passengers could be eligible for compensation, but certain criteria must be met. It is important to understand these requirements to effectively manage the compensation process:

• Your flight must be covered by the EU261/2004 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 was 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 valid reservation and be prepared to travel. This includes having a valid booking and all essential travel documents ready (passport, visas).
• You need to arrive at the airport on time. Check-in by the time specified by your 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 requirements following a Air China 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 in potentially receiving compensation for an airline strike.

How to Claim Air China Strike Compensation

Dealing with cancelled or delayed flights due to strikes is always frustrating. Such situations can ruin not just your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To claim compensation for this inconvenience, follow these steps:

1. Fill in this form. You’ll need to provide details like your flight number, date, and what went wrong.
2. Let our experts help you. Once you submit the form, our team will take over. We understand the EU laws comprehensively and will make every effort to secure your compensation. You are only charged if we win your case.

Following these steps, you’ll obtain 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 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

When the flight delay is 2+ hours, the airline is obligated 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 phone calls and send faxes, or e-mails for free.

Rebooking or Refunds

If your flight gets cancelled or delayed by 5+ hours, you are entitled to a full refund or an alternative flight to your final destination. These solutions have some flexibility, which is great because you can choose what works best for you.

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