Flight cancellations or delays caused by an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. Fortunately, in many cases, passengers are covered under EU261/2004 regulation. This regulation outlines the rules for assistance and compensation to passengers in cases of airline strikes. In this article, we will look at passenger rights and the process of claiming compensation from the airline. When Are You Entitled to Qantas Strike Compensation? EU Regulation 261/2004 protects passengers affected by airline strikes. This regulation obliges the airline to pay compensation during a standard crew strike and a “wildcat” strike. These labor disputes are considered part of operational issues, therefore, the airline is responsible for them. It is essential to understand that the situation with compensation is complex. Certain strikes may qualify for the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by baggage handlers, fire crews, ground personnel, etc. In the event of disruptions resulting from these ground crew members, the chances of getting compensation may be significantly reduced. It is essential to identify exactly which crew is involved in the strike. This directly impacts 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 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 might 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 reach your final destination more than 3 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 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 Qantas Strike Compensation When a travel disruption occurs, passengers could be entitled to compensation, but specific requirements must be met. It is crucial to understand these criteria to effectively manage 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 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 3 hours or more at the final destination, or it was cancelled with less 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 valid booking and all necessary travel documents ready (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 maintain eligibility for compensation. In case you believe you meet these conditions following a Qantas 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 towards potentially obtaining compensation for an airline strike. How to Claim Qantas Strike Compensation Dealing with cancelled or delayed flights due to strikes is always frustrating. This can not only ruin your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To get compensated for this inconvenience, proceed with these steps: Complete our form. You’ll need to provide details including 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 thoroughly and will do our best to get you your compensation. You only pay us if we win your case. Following these steps, you will 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 case of a flight disruption. These services aim to reduce inconveniences and give some comfort to passengers during delays or cancellations. Keep in mind that the services we are describing below are included in 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 are free beverages and meals. Additionally, the affected passengers have a right to make two 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 are entitled to a full refund or an alternative flight to your final destination. These options offer some flexibility, which is great because you can choose what works best for you.