Compensation and Reimbursement for Avianca Strike

Flight delays or cancellations due to an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. However, in many cases, passengers are covered under EU261/2004 regulation. This regulation establishes the rules for compensation and assistance to passengers during airline strikes. In this article, we will look at passenger rights and how to claim compensation from the airline.

When Are You Entitled to Avianca Strike Compensation?

EU Regulation 261/2004 protects passengers affected by airline strikes. This law obliges the airline to issue 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 baggage handlers, fire crews, ground personnel, etc. When faced with disruptions due to these ground crew members, the chances of receiving compensation may be significantly reduced. It is essential to identify exactly which personnel 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 inform passengers 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 crucial 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 is based 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 reach 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 arrive at 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 Avianca Strike Compensation

When an airline strike occurs, passengers may be entitled to compensation, but certain requirements must be met. It is important to understand these requirements to properly navigate the compensation process:

• Your flight must be covered by the EU261 regulation. This covers 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 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 less than 14 days’ notice before the scheduled departure.
• You are required to have a valid reservation and be ready to travel. This includes having a valid booking and all essential 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 no time is given, arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to stay eligible for compensation.

If you believe you meet these conditions following a Avianca 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 obtaining compensation for an airline strike.

How to Claim Avianca 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 claim compensation for this inconvenience, take the following actions:

1. Complete this form. You’ll need to provide details such as your flight number, date, and the issue you encountered.
2. Let our experts help you. Once you submit the form, our team will take over. 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.

By following these steps, 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 case 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 are included in the airline company’s duty to care for every 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 alleviate discomfort. Some of the basic services include free beverages and meals. Additionally, the affected passengers have a right to make two calls and send faxes, or emails for free.

Rebooking or Refunds

If your flight gets cancelled or delayed by more than five hours, you are entitled 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.

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