Flight cancellations or delays caused by an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. Fortunately, in many cases, passengers are covered under EU261/2004 regulation. This regulation outlines the rules for compensation and assistance to passengers in cases of airline strikes. In this article, we will look at passenger rights and how to claim compensation from the airline. When Are You Entitled to Azerbaijan Airlines Strike Compensation? European Union Regulation 261/2004 protects passengers 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 issues, therefore, the airline is responsible for them. It is important to understand that the situation with compensation is complex. Some strikes may qualify for the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by baggage handlers, firefighters, ground personnel, etc. When faced with disruptions resulting from these ground staff, the chances of receiving compensation may be significantly reduced. It is crucial to determine exactly which staff is involved in the strike. This directly affects your eligibility for compensation. Flight Cancellation Compensation In the event 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 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 shown in the table: Under 2 hours2-3 hours3-4 hoursOver 4 hoursNever arrivedDistance€125€250€250€250€250All flights 1,500 km or less€200€200€400€400€400Internal EU flights over 1,500 km€200€200€400€400€400Non-internal EU flights 1,500 km- 3,500 km€300€300€300€600€600Non-internal EU flights over 3,500 km Flight Delay Compensation According to the EU261/2004 regulation, if your flight is delayed and you arrive at your final destination more than three hours later than planned, 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 reach your final destination, not on how late the plane departed. The amount of compensation is based on the distance of the flight and the duration of the delay: Less than 3 hoursBetween 3-4 hoursOver 4 hoursDistance€0€250€250All flights up to 1500 km€0€400€400All flights between 1500 km and 3500 km€0€400€400All intra-EU flights over 3500 km€0€300€600All non-EU flights over 3500 km Requirements for Azerbaijan Airlines Strike Compensation When a travel disruption occurs, passengers could be eligible for compensation, but specific criteria must be met. It’s 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 departing 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 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 confirmed reservation and be prepared to travel. This includes having a confirmed booking and all necessary travel documents ready (passport, visas). You need to get to the airport on time. 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. If you believe you meet these requirements following a Azerbaijan Airlines 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 Azerbaijan Airlines Strike Compensation Dealing with flight delays or cancellations due to strikes is always frustrating. It can spoil your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To claim compensation for this inconvenience, proceed with these steps: Complete 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 take over. We understand the EU laws comprehensively and will do our best to get you your compensation. You only incur a fee if we win your case. 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. Keep in mind that the services we are describing below are a part of the airline company’s duty to care for every 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 reduce discomfort. Some of the basic services include free beverages and meals. Moreover, the affected passengers have a right to make 2 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 options have some flexibility, which is great because you can choose what works best for you.