Flight delays or cancellations caused by an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. Fortunately, in many cases, passengers are covered under EU261/2004 regulation. This regulation defines the rules for compensation and assistance to passengers during airline strikes. In this article, we will look at your rights as a passenger and the steps to seek compensation from the airline.
When Are You Entitled to Albawings Strike Compensation?
European Union Regulation 261/2004 protects travelers affected by airline strikes. This law obliges the airline to pay compensation in case of a standard crew strike and a “wildcat” strike. These labor disputes are considered part of operational issues, therefore, the airline is responsible for them.
It is crucial to understand that the situation with compensation is complex. Some strikes may be classified as the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by cargo handlers, fire crews, ground personnel, etc. In the event of disruptions caused by these ground crew members, the chances of receiving 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 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 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 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 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’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 departed.
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 Albawings Strike Compensation
When an airline strike occurs, passengers may be eligible for compensation, but specific criteria must be met. It is important to understand these criteria to properly navigate the compensation process:
- Your flight must be covered by the EU261/2004 regulation. This applies to 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 has been delayed by 3 hours or more at the final destination, or it was cancelled with fewer than fourteen days’ notice before the scheduled departure.
- You are required to have a confirmed reservation and be ready to travel. This includes having a confirmed booking and all essential travel documents prepared (passport, visas).
- You need to get to the airport on time. Complete check-in within the time specified by your airline. If no specific time is provided, arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to stay eligible for compensation.
If you believe you meet these criteria following a Albawings 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 to potentially receiving compensation for an airline strike.
How to Claim Albawings Strike Compensation
Dealing with flight delays or cancellations due to strikes is always frustrating. This can ruin not just your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To claim compensation for this inconvenience, take the following actions:
- Fill in our form. You’ll need to provide details such as 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 know the EU laws comprehensively and will make every effort to secure your compensation. You only pay us if we win your case.
Following these steps, you will get 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 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
If the flight delay is two hours or more, the airline is required 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 two phone calls and send faxes, or e-mails for free.
Rebooking or Refunds
If your flight is 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.