Flight delays or cancellations caused by an airline strike can seriously disrupt travel plans. However, in many cases, passengers are covered under EU261 regulation. This regulation defines the rules for assistance and compensation for travelers when facing 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 Sichuan Airlines Strike Compensation?
EU Regulation 261/2004 protects passengers affected by airline strikes. This law obliges the airline to pay compensation in case of 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 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, firefighters, ground staff, etc. When faced with disruptions caused by these ground staff, the chances of receiving compensation may be significantly reduced. It is essential to determine exactly which personnel is involved in the strike. This directly impacts 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 during 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 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 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 reach your final destination more than 3 hours later than scheduled, 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 Sichuan Airlines Strike Compensation
When a flight disruption occurs, passengers could be eligible for compensation, but specific criteria 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 leaving 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 3 hours or more at the final destination, or it was cancelled with fewer than fourteen 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 necessary travel documents ready (passport, visas).
- You need to get to the airport on time. Complete check-in within the time specified by your airline. If no time is given, arrive at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to maintain eligibility for compensation.
In case you believe you meet these conditions following a Sichuan 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 Sichuan Airlines Strike Compensation
Dealing with flight cancellations or delays due to strikes is always frustrating. This can ruin not just 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 like your flight number, date, and what went wrong.
- Let our experts help you. Once you submit the form, our team will handle the rest. We know the EU laws comprehensively and will make every effort to obtain your rightful compensation. You only incur a fee 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 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 provide some comfort to passengers during delays or cancellations. Keep in mind that the services we are describing below are a part of the airline company’s duty to care for each 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. Moreover, the affected passengers have a right to make two phone calls and send faxes, or emails for free.
Rebooking or Refunds
If your flight gets 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.