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 establishes the rules for compensation and assistance 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 Transat Strike Compensation?
EU Regulation 261/2004 protects passengers affected by airline strikes. This legislation obliges the airline to issue compensation in case of 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 essential to understand that the situation with compensation is complex. Some strikes may qualify for the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by baggage handlers, fire crews, ground staff, etc. In the event of disruptions caused by these ground crew members, the chances of receiving compensation may be significantly reduced. It is crucial to identify exactly which staff 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 notify 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 might be entitled to compensation. The amount of compensation is based 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
According to the EU261 regulation, if your flight is delayed and you reach your final destination more than three hours later than planned, 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 Transat Strike Compensation
When a flight disruption occurs, passengers may be eligible for compensation, but specific requirements 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 covers 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 has been delayed by 3 hours or more at the final destination, or it was cancelled with less than fourteen days’ notice before the scheduled departure.
- You must have a confirmed reservation and be prepared to travel. This includes having a valid booking and all necessary travel documents ready (passport, visas).
- You need to get to the airport on time. Check-in within the specified time by your airline. If no time is given, arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to stay eligible for compensation.
In case you believe you meet these criteria following a Air Transat 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 Transat Strike Compensation
Dealing with cancelled or delayed flights due to strikes is always frustrating. It can spoil your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To claim compensation for this inconvenience, follow these steps:
- Complete our form. You’ll need to provide details including 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 are well-versed in the EU laws thoroughly and will make every effort 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 need to 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
If the flight delay is 2+ hours, the airline is obligated to provide affected passengers with certain services to alleviate discomfort. Some of the basic services include free beverages and meals. In addition to this, the affected passengers have a right to make 2 phone calls and send faxes, or emails for free.
Rebooking or Refunds
If your flight is 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 have some flexibility, which is great because you can choose what works best for you.