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 defines the rules for compensation and assistance for travelers 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 Hong Kong Airlines Strike Compensation?
EU Regulation 261/2004 protects passengers affected by airline strikes. This legislation obliges the airline to issue compensation in the event 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 be classified as the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by baggage handlers, fire crews, ground staff, etc. In the event of disruptions resulting from these ground staff, the chances of getting compensation may be significantly reduced. It is crucial to determine exactly which personnel 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 inform travelers of the cancellation at least 14 days before the scheduled departure. If the airline fails to notify you within the specified period, it is obliged to pay compensation to passengers in the amount of up to 600 euros.
It is crucial 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 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 reach your final destination more than three 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 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 Hong Kong Airlines Strike Compensation
When a flight disruption occurs, passengers could be eligible for compensation, but specific requirements must be met. It is important to understand these requirements to properly navigate the compensation process:
- Your flight must be covered by the EU261/2004 regulation. This applies to all flights leaving 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 has been 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 must have a confirmed reservation and be ready to travel. This includes having a valid booking and all necessary travel documents ready (passport, visas).
- You need to arrive at the airport on time. Check-in within the specified time by your airline. If a time isn’t specified, arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to maintain eligibility for compensation.
Should you believe you meet these conditions following a Hong Kong 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 to potentially obtaining compensation for an airline strike.
How to Claim Hong Kong Airlines Strike Compensation
Dealing with cancelled or delayed flights due to strikes is always frustrating. Such situations can spoil your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To get compensated for this inconvenience, take the following actions:
- Fill in 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 understand the EU laws well and will make every effort to secure your compensation. You only incur a fee 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 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 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 required to provide affected passengers with certain services to alleviate discomfort. Some of the basic services include free beverages and meals. In addition to this, 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 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.