Flight cancellations or delays caused by an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. Fortunately, in many cases, passengers are covered under EU261 regulation. This regulation establishes the rules for compensation and assistance to passengers 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 Ethiopian Airlines Strike Compensation? EU Regulation 261/2004 protects travelers affected by airline strikes. This regulation obliges the airline to pay compensation in case of a standard crew strike and a “wildcat” strike. These labor disputes are considered part of operational issues, as a result, the airline is responsible for them. It is important 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 getting compensation may be significantly reduced. It is crucial to determine exactly which crew is involved in the strike. This directly affects your eligibility for 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 during 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 may be entitled to compensation. The amount of compensation depends on the duration of the delay and the distance of the flight, as displayed 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 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 departed. The amount of compensation depends 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 Ethiopian Airlines Strike Compensation When a travel disruption occurs, passengers may be entitled to compensation, but certain requirements must be met. It is crucial to understand these criteria to properly navigate 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 delay or cancellation has significantly disrupted your travel plans. This means your flight has been delayed by 3 hours or more at the final destination, or it was cancelled with fewer than fourteen days’ notice before the scheduled departure. You are required to have a confirmed reservation and be ready to travel. This includes having a valid booking and all essential travel documents prepared (passport, visas). You need to arrive at the airport on time. Check-in by the specified time by your airline. If no specific time is provided, arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to stay eligible for compensation. In case you believe you meet these requirements following a Ethiopian Airlines strike, it’s advisable to document your experience thoroughly and communicate directly with the airline about your compensation claim. Being aware of your rights and responsibilities is the first step to potentially receiving compensation for an airline strike. How to Claim Ethiopian Airlines Strike Compensation Dealing with delayed or cancelled flights due to strikes is always frustrating. Such situations can not only ruin your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To get compensated for this inconvenience, take the following actions: Complete this form. You’ll need to provide details such as your flight number, date, and what went wrong. Let our experts help you. Once you submit the form, our team will take over. We know the EU laws well and will strive to secure your compensation. You only incur a fee if we win your case. Following these steps, obtain 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. Remember that the services we are describing below are a part of 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 obligated to provide affected passengers with certain services to reduce discomfort. Some of the basic services are 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 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.