Flight delays or cancellations caused by an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. Fortunately, in many cases, passengers are protected by EU261 regulation. This regulation outlines the rules for assistance and compensation to passengers during airline strikes. In this article, we will look at your rights as a passenger and how to claim compensation from the airline.
When Are You Entitled to Egyptair Strike Compensation?
EU Regulation 261/2004 protects passengers affected by airline strikes. This law obliges the airline to issue compensation during 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. Certain strikes may fall under the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by cargo handlers, fire crews, ground personnel, etc. In the event of disruptions due to these ground staff, the chances of obtaining compensation may be significantly reduced. It is essential to determine 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 notify 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 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
According to the EU261 regulation, if your flight is delayed and you arrive at your final destination more than three hours later than scheduled, you are entitled to 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 took off.
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 Egyptair Strike Compensation
When a travel disruption occurs, passengers may 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 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 delay or cancellation has significantly disrupted your travel plans. This means your flight has been delayed by three hours or more at the final destination, or it was cancelled with fewer than fourteen days’ notice before the scheduled departure.
- You must have a confirmed reservation and be prepared to travel. This includes having a valid booking and all necessary travel documents prepared (passport, visas).
- You need to get to the airport on time. Check-in within the specified time by the airline. If a time isn’t specified, arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to stay eligible for compensation.
If you believe you meet these conditions following a Egyptair 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 to potentially receiving compensation for an airline strike.
How to Claim Egyptair Strike Compensation
Dealing with cancelled or delayed 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, follow these steps:
- Complete our form. You’ll need to provide details including your flight number, date, and the problem you faced.
- Let our experts help you. Once you submit the form, our team will handle the rest. We are well-versed in the EU laws well and will strive to get you your compensation. You only pay us if we win your case.
By following these steps, receive the compensation you are entitled to under EU law.
Other Rights in Case of a Flight Strike
In addition to compensation, passengers should 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 a part of the airline company’s duty to care for every passenger.
Right to Care
When 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 are free beverages and meals. Moreover, 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 5+ hours, you are entitled to a full refund or an alternative flight to your final destination. These solutions offer some flexibility, which is great because you can choose what works best for you.