Flight cancellations or delays due to an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. However, in many cases, passengers are protected by EU261/2004 regulation. This regulation establishes 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 process of claiming compensation from the airline. When Are You Entitled to China Southern Airlines Strike Compensation? EU Regulation 261/2004 protects travelers affected by airline strikes. This regulation obliges the airline to pay compensation during a standard crew strike and a “wildcat” strike. These labor disputes are considered part of operational problems, therefore, the airline is responsible for them. It is essential to understand that the situation with compensation is complex. Some strikes may fall under the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by cargo handlers, firefighters, ground personnel, etc. In the event of disruptions resulting from these ground crew members, the chances of obtaining compensation may be significantly reduced. It is crucial to identify exactly which staff is involved in the strike. This directly affects your right to 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 during 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 depends on the duration of the delay and the distance of the flight, as shown in the following 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 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 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 China Southern Airlines Strike Compensation When an airline strike occurs, passengers could be eligible for compensation, but specific requirements must be met. It is important to understand these requirements to effectively manage the compensation process: Your flight must be covered by the EU261 regulation. This covers all flights departing from EU airports, regardless of the airline. It also applies to 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 was delayed by 3 hours or more at the final destination, or it was cancelled with less 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 prepared (passport, visas). You need to arrive at the airport on time. Check-in by the time specified by your airline. If no time is given, arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to maintain eligibility for compensation. If you believe you meet these criteria following a China Southern Airlines 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 towards potentially obtaining compensation for an airline strike. How to Claim China Southern Airlines Strike Compensation Dealing with delayed or cancelled flights 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: Complete our form. You’ll need to provide details such as 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 know the EU laws thoroughly and will make every effort to obtain your rightful compensation. You are only charged 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 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 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 When the flight delay is two hours or more, the airline is obligated to provide affected passengers with certain services to alleviate discomfort. Some of the basic services are 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 gets cancelled or delayed by over five hours, you can request 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.