Flight cancellations or delays caused by an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. However, in many cases, passengers are protected by EU261 regulation. This regulation establishes the rules for assistance and compensation to passengers in cases of airline strikes. In this article, we will look at passenger rights and the process of claiming compensation from the airline.
When Are You Entitled to Alliance Air Strike Compensation?
European Union Regulation 261/2004 protects travelers affected by airline strikes. This legislation obliges the airline to issue 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 important to understand that the situation with compensation is complex. Certain strikes may be classified as the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by cargo handlers, firefighters, ground personnel, etc. In the event of disruptions due to these ground staff, the chances of getting compensation may be significantly reduced. It is essential to determine exactly which crew is involved in the strike. This directly impacts your right to compensation.
Flight Cancellation Compensation
In cases 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 doesn’t inform you within the specified period, it is obliged to pay compensation to travelers in the amount of up to 600 euros.
It is essential to note that the airline is not obligated to issue 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 depends on the duration of the delay and the distance of the flight, as shown 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 reach your final destination more than three hours later than scheduled, you are eligible for compensation of up to €600 per passenger. It is important to note that the duration of the delay depends solely on when you arrive at your final destination, not on how late the plane took off.
The amount of compensation is based 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 Alliance Air Strike Compensation
When a travel disruption occurs, passengers may be entitled to compensation, but certain criteria must be met. It is important to understand these requirements 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 covers 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 fourteen 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 prepared (passport, visas).
- You need to get to the airport on time. Check-in by the time specified by the 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 conditions following a Alliance Air strike, it’s advisable to document your experience thoroughly and get in touch directly with the airline about your compensation claim. Understanding your rights and responsibilities is the first step in potentially obtaining compensation for an airline strike.
How to Claim Alliance Air Strike Compensation
Dealing with flight delays or cancellations due to strikes is always frustrating. Such situations can not only ruin your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To seek compensation for this inconvenience, take the following actions:
- Fill in this 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 handle the rest. We know the EU laws comprehensively and will do our best to obtain your rightful compensation. You are only charged if we win your case.
By 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 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 provide 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 2+ hours, the airline is obligated to provide affected passengers with certain services to reduce discomfort. Some of the basic services include free beverages and meals. Additionally, the affected passengers have a right to make two phone calls and send faxes, or emails for free.
Rebooking or Refunds
If your flight gets cancelled or delayed by over five hours, you can request a full refund or an alternative flight to your final destination. These options offer some flexibility, which is great because you can choose what works best for you.