Flight delays or cancellations caused by an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. However, in many cases, passengers are covered under EU261 regulation. This regulation establishes the rules for assistance and compensation for travelers in cases of 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 Citilink Strike Compensation? EU Regulation 261/2004 protects passengers affected by airline strikes. This law obliges the airline to pay compensation in the event 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. Certain strikes may qualify for the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by cargo handlers, fire crews, ground staff, etc. When faced with disruptions caused by these ground staff, the chances of obtaining compensation may be significantly reduced. It is crucial to identify exactly which crew is involved in the strike. This directly influences your eligibility for compensation. Flight Cancellation Compensation In the event 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 during the specified period, it is obliged to pay compensation to passengers 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 may be entitled to compensation. The amount of compensation is based on the duration of the delay and the distance of the flight, as displayed 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 Under the EU261/2004 regulation, if your flight is delayed and you arrive at your final destination more than three hours later than scheduled, you are eligible for 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 took off. 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 Citilink Strike Compensation When an airline strike occurs, passengers could be entitled to compensation, but certain requirements must be met. It is important to understand these criteria 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 covers flights arriving in the EU, but only when operated 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 prepared to travel. This includes having a confirmed booking and all essential travel documents ready (passport, visas). You need to get to 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. In case you believe you meet these requirements following a Citilink strike, it’s advisable to document your experience thoroughly and communicate directly with the airline about your compensation claim. Understanding your rights and responsibilities is the first step in potentially receiving compensation for an airline strike. How to Claim Citilink 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 get compensated for this inconvenience, follow these steps: Complete 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 understand the EU laws thoroughly and will do our best to obtain your rightful compensation. You only incur a fee if we win your case. Following these steps, you’ll secure 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 are included in the airline company’s duty to care for every 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 2 phone calls and send faxes, or emails for free. Rebooking or Refunds If your flight is cancelled or delayed by over five hours, you have the right to 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.