Passenger Rights During Strikes

Even if compensation is not available, airlines still have legal obligations:

• Provide meals, refreshments, and two free communications (calls/messages) during long delays.
• Offer hotel accommodation and transport if the disruption extends overnight
• Ensure passengers are rebooked on the earliest available alternative flight.
• Inform passengers of their rights in clear and timely communication

Key Insights : Strike-Related Flight Disruptions

• You may be entitled to compensation if the strike involves airline staff.
• No compensation applies if the strike is considered extraordinary (e.g., ATC or airport strike).
• Airlines must provide meals, drinks, accommodation & rebooking if affected.
• Passengers have up to 3 years to file a claim depending on national law.
• Compensation ranges from €250 – €600 based on flight distance.

Exceptions: Can You Always Claim After a Strike?

• Denied Boarding After Strike: If your seat was given to another passenger after operations resumed, you may still be entitled to compensation.
• Pre-Strike Cancellations: Flights cancelled before the strike officially begins may still trigger compensation, as airlines remain responsible.
• Extraordinary Circumstances Check: Airlines must prove they took all reasonable steps — such as rerouting or alternative travel — before denying compensation.

Do I Still Need to Check In During a Strike?

Even if your flight is affected by a strike, you must check in on time unless the airline has explicitly informed you not to. This is a crucial step to protect your rights under EU Regulation 261/2004.

Why it matters: If you fail to check in, the airline can argue that you forfeited your rights to rebooking, compensation, or care. Checking in ensures you are officially recognized as a passenger who was ready to travel.

• Short-Term Strikes: If the strike is temporary (e.g., a few hours), you should still appear at the airport and remain available for updates. Airlines often organize replacement flights at short notice.
• Longer Strikes: If the strike lasts multiple days, request written confirmation of your rescheduled departure time to avoid unnecessary travel to the airport.
• Package Tours: If you booked through a tour operator, contact them directly. They are responsible for informing you whether your trip is cancelled, rescheduled, or rerouted.

Alternative Travel Options When Flights Are Cancelled by Strikes

When a strike disrupts your flight, airlines must still provide assistance and alternative travel options under EU Regulation 261/2004. Here’s what you need to know:

• Check-In Requirement: Even if a strike is announced, passengers should still check in on time unless told otherwise. Failing to do so may affect your eligibility for compensation or rebooking rights. If the strike is prolonged, airlines must inform you in advance of your new departure time.
• Rebooking or Refund: If your flight is canceled due to a strike, the airline must offer you either a replacement flight to your destination or a full refund. You also have the right to cancel your booking free of charge if the new travel plans don’t suit you.
• Alternative Transport Options(Trains, Buses, and More):
  • For domestic or short-haul trips, airlines may convert your ticket for train or bus travel at no extra cost.
  • Airlines often partner with rail or bus companies to cover cancellations and ensure you still reach your destination.
  • If you prefer, you can make your own arrangements, but always confirm in writing with the airline whether costs will be reimbursed.
• Rental Cars: In certain cases, passengers may opt for a rental car if no timely flight alternative is available. However, reimbursement depends on airline approval. Always request written confirmation before booking to avoid paying out of pocket.
• Care During Waiting Periods: Regardless of the transport option, airlines must provide meals, refreshments, and accommodation if necessary (for example, if rebooking moves your journey to the next day).