Flight delays or cancellations due to an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. However, in many cases, passengers are covered under EU261 regulation. This regulation outlines the rules for assistance and compensation for travelers when facing airline strikes. In this article, we will look at passenger rights and how to claim compensation from the airline.
When Are You Entitled to Air North Strike Compensation?
European Union Regulation 261/2004 protects travelers affected by airline strikes. This law obliges the airline to pay compensation during a standard crew strike and a “wildcat” strike. These labor disputes are considered part of operational problems, as a result, the airline is responsible for them.
It is crucial to understand that the situation with compensation is complex. Certain strikes may fall under the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by cargo handlers, firefighters, ground personnel, etc. When faced with disruptions resulting from these ground crew members, the chances of obtaining compensation may be significantly reduced. It is crucial to determine exactly which personnel is involved in the strike. This directly affects your right to 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 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 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 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’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 North Strike Compensation
When a travel disruption occurs, passengers could be eligible for compensation, but specific criteria must be met. It is important to understand these criteria to effectively manage the compensation process:
- Your flight must be covered by the EU261/2004 regulation. This covers all flights departing from EU airports, regardless of the airline. It also covers 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 three 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 valid 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 time specified by the airline. If no specific time is provided, arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to stay eligible for compensation.
Should you believe you meet these requirements following a Air North 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 in potentially obtaining compensation for an airline strike.
How to Claim Air North 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 seek compensation for this inconvenience, follow these steps:
- Fill in this form. You’ll need to provide details like your flight number, date, and the issue you encountered.
- Let our experts help you. Once you submit the form, our team will handle the rest. We know the EU laws well and will do our best to obtain your rightful compensation. You only pay us if we win your case.
By following these steps, 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 the event of a flight disruption. These services aim to reduce inconveniences and provide some comfort to passengers during delays or cancellations. Remember 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 include free beverages and meals. Moreover, 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 have the right 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.