Flight cancellations or delays due to an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. However, in many cases, passengers are covered under EU261 regulation. This regulation defines 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 process of claiming compensation from the airline.
When Are You Entitled to Air India Express Strike Compensation?
European Union 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 issues, consequently, the airline is responsible for them.
It is essential to understand that the situation with compensation is complex. Some strikes may qualify for the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by cargo handlers, fire crews, ground personnel, etc. When faced with disruptions due to these ground staff, the chances of getting compensation may be significantly reduced. It is essential to identify exactly which crew is involved in the strike. This directly influences your right to 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 fails to notify 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 may 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 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 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 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 India Express Strike Compensation
When a travel disruption occurs, passengers may be eligible for compensation, but certain criteria must be met. It’s important to understand these criteria to effectively manage the compensation process:
- Your flight must be covered by the EU261/2004 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 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 ready to travel. This includes having a valid booking and all necessary travel documents ready (passport, visas).
- You need to arrive at the airport on time. Complete check-in within the specified time by the airline. If a time isn’t specified, arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to maintain eligibility for compensation.
If you believe you meet these conditions following a Air India Express strike, it’s advisable to document your experience thoroughly and get in touch directly with the airline about your compensation claim. Knowing your rights and responsibilities is the first step towards potentially receiving compensation for an airline strike.
How to Claim Air India Express 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, take the following actions:
- Complete our 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 take over. We know the EU laws thoroughly and will make every effort to obtain your rightful compensation. You are only charged 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 should 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 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 alleviate 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 more than five hours, you can request 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.