Strikes by pilots or flight attendants are becoming more frequent and are having a significant impact on air traffic. Passengers are particularly affected, especially when their planned flights are cancelled in the worst-case scenario. Within the European Union, the Air Passenger Rights Regulation governs the rights of those affected. The most important point: passengers are entitled to alternative transport at the earliest possible opportunity.
Rebooking or alternative transport
In principle, it is advisable to check the airline's website for information about potential strikes before a flight. The airline may already provide information about replacement flights. In the event of a strike, the EU regulation obliges airlines to get their passengers to their destination as quickly as possible. This is primarily done through free rebooking. Alternatively, for reasonable distances, other means of transport such as the train may be considered.
Claiming the right to care
If passengers are stranded at the airport due to strikes, flight distance and waiting time determine their rights. For flights up to a distance of 1,500 kilometers, those affected are entitled to meals, two phone calls, and, if necessary, a hotel stay after a two-hour delay. If the flight distance is between 1,500 and 3,500 kilometers, the required waiting time increases to three hours.
If the distance is more than 3,500 kilometers, the right to meals and accommodation only applies after four hours. According to the EU regulation, assistance from the airline is provided free of charge. If the service is not provided despite a request, those affected may take care of it themselves. In this case, it is advisable to keep the receipts and invoice the airline.
Withdrawal from the flight possible after five hours
After a strike-related waiting time of more than five hours, passengers are entitled to withdraw from the booked flight. In this case, they have the right to demand a refund of the ticket price. Despite announced strikes, passengers should arrive at the airport on time according to the deadlines of the booked flight. Otherwise, passengers may miss a replacement flight organized at short notice. This would result in the loss of the rights explained.
In addition, it is advisable to check for potential compensation claims via independent sites such as FlightRight. A general claim for compensation payments from the airline does not apply in the event of strikes. Although the EU regulation provides for compensation for delays of three hours or more, this does not apply in the case of "extraordinary circumstances." Airlines classify strikes by their staff as such an extraordinary circumstance. However, FlightRight sometimes has data that proves that the cancellation of a flight was not due to the immediate strike phase.
