Compensation and Reimbursement for Malaysia Airlines Strike

Flight delays or cancellations 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 passenger rights and how to claim compensation from the airline.

When Are You Entitled to Malaysia Airlines Strike Compensation?

EU Regulation 261/2004 protects travelers affected by airline strikes. This regulation obliges the airline to issue compensation during a standard crew strike and a “wildcat” strike. These labor disputes are considered part of operational problems, consequently, 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, firefighters, ground staff, etc. In the event of disruptions resulting from these ground staff, the chances of receiving 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 within 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 could 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 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 EU261/2004 regulation, if your flight is delayed and you arrive at your final destination more than 3 hours later than planned, 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 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 Malaysia Airlines Strike Compensation

When an airline strike occurs, passengers may be entitled to compensation, but certain requirements must be met. It’s crucial to understand these criteria to properly navigate the compensation process:

• Your flight must be covered by the EU261/2004 regulation. This applies to all flights departing from EU airports, regardless of the airline. It also applies to 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 14 days’ notice before the scheduled departure.
• You are required to have a valid reservation and be ready to travel. This includes having a confirmed booking and all essential travel documents prepared (passport, visas).
• You need to get to the airport on time. Complete check-in within the specified time 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 Malaysia 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 in potentially obtaining compensation for an airline strike.

How to Claim Malaysia Airlines Strike Compensation

Dealing with flight cancellations or delays due to strikes is always frustrating. This can spoil your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To get compensated for this inconvenience, take the following actions:

1. Fill in our form. You’ll need to provide details such as your flight number, date, and what went wrong.
2. 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 are only charged if we win your case.

By following these steps, get 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 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 fall under the airline company’s duty to care for every passenger.

Right to Care

When the flight delay is 2+ hours, the airline is required to provide affected passengers with certain services to alleviate discomfort. Some of the basic services include free beverages and meals. Additionally, the affected passengers have a right to make two phone 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 have some flexibility, which is great because you can choose what works best for you.

Recent Flight Delays and Cancellations