Flight delays or cancellations due to an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. However, in many cases, passengers are covered under EU261/2004 regulation. This regulation defines the rules for compensation and assistance to passengers when facing 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 Qatar Airways Strike Compensation? EU Regulation 261/2004 protects passengers affected by airline strikes. This regulation 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 problems, therefore, the airline is responsible for them. It is crucial to understand that the situation with compensation is complex. Certain strikes may fall under the “extraordinary circumstances” exception. These include strikes by cargo handlers, fire crews, ground personnel, etc. In the event of disruptions resulting from these ground staff, the chances of getting compensation may be significantly reduced. It is essential to determine exactly which staff is involved in the strike. This directly influences your right to 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 within 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 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 depends on the duration of the delay and the distance of the flight, as displayed in the following 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 EU261/2004 regulation, if your flight is delayed and you arrive at 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 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 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 Qatar Airways Strike Compensation When a flight disruption occurs, passengers may be entitled to compensation, but certain criteria must be met. It’s 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 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 was delayed by 3 hours or more at the final destination, or it was cancelled with less than fourteen 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 prepared (passport, visas). You need to arrive at the airport on time. Check-in by the time specified by your airline. If a time isn’t specified, arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to stay eligible for compensation. In case you believe you meet these conditions following a Qatar Airways strike, it’s advisable to document your experience thoroughly and get in touch directly with the airline about your compensation claim. Being aware of your rights and responsibilities is the first step in potentially receiving compensation for an airline strike. How to Claim Qatar Airways Strike Compensation Dealing with flight delays or cancellations due to strikes is always frustrating. It can spoil your trip but also create problems – emotional, financial, etc. To seek compensation for this inconvenience, take the following actions: Fill in this form. You’ll need to provide details including your flight number, date, and the problem you faced. Let our experts help you. Once you submit the form, our team will manage the process. We know the EU laws thoroughly and will make every effort to obtain your rightful compensation. You only incur a fee if we win your case. Following these steps, you’ll receive 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. Keep in mind that the services we are describing below are included in 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 include free beverages and meals. Additionally, the affected passengers have a right to make two calls and send faxes, or e-mails for free. Rebooking or Refunds If your flight is cancelled or delayed by over five hours, you have the right 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.