Flight delays or cancellations due to an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. Fortunately, in many cases, passengers are protected by EU261/2004 regulation. This regulation defines 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 process of claiming compensation from the airline.
When Are You Entitled to Porter Airlines Strike Compensation?
European Union 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 problems, as a result, the airline is responsible for them.
It is essential to understand that the situation with compensation is complex. Some strikes may qualify for the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by baggage handlers, fire crews, ground staff, etc. In the event of disruptions caused by these ground staff, the chances of obtaining compensation may be significantly reduced. It is essential to identify exactly which personnel 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 travelers in the amount of up to 600 euros.
It is important 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 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
Under the EU261 regulation, if your flight is delayed and you reach your final destination more than three hours later than scheduled, you are eligible for compensation of up to €600 per passenger. It is important to note that the duration of the delay depends solely on when you arrive at your final destination, not on how late the plane departed.
The amount of compensation is based 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 Porter Airlines Strike Compensation
When a flight disruption 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 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 was 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 must 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. Check-in by the specified time by the airline. If no specific time is provided, arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to maintain eligibility for compensation.
If you believe you meet these criteria following a Porter 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 in potentially obtaining compensation for an airline strike.
How to Claim Porter Airlines Strike Compensation
Dealing with flight cancellations or delays due to strikes is always frustrating. It can ruin not just your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To seek compensation 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 manage the process. We are well-versed in the EU laws thoroughly and will do our best to obtain your rightful compensation. You only incur a fee if we win your case.
By following these steps, you will obtain the compensation you are entitled to under EU law.
Other Rights in Case of a Flight Strike
In addition to compensation, passengers must 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 fall under the airline company’s duty to care for each passenger.
Right to Care
When the flight delay is 2+ hours, the airline is obligated to provide affected passengers with certain services to alleviate discomfort. Some of the basic services are free beverages and meals. In addition to this, the affected passengers have a right to make two calls and send faxes, or e-mails for free.
Rebooking or Refunds
If your flight gets cancelled or delayed by over five hours, you can request 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.