Airline Strikes
FAQs
Will I get a refund for cancelled flights as a result of strikes?
It depends on the airline you are travelling with. However, under the EU Regulation No 261/2004, if your flight is cancelled because of strikes, you will be entitled to either a full refund of the cost of the airline ticket, an alternative return flight from the same destination, a substitute flight to a nearby airport, with all additional travel costs paid for, or a replacement flight outside the strike duration.
Will I get compensation such as free transport and food for airline strikes?
According to EU regulation, you are entitled to free meals and refreshments if your flight is delayed by two or more hours (depending on the duration and distance of the original flight). If you are delayed until the next day, you will be entitled to hotel accommodation and transport between the airport. If this is not automatically provided, you may have to purchase it yourself and claim it back at a later date with the obtained receipts. Airlines often require you to go for the cost-efficient options, so make sure you keep the costs low.
Does travel insurance cover airline strikes?
Under European Law, it is actually up to the airline to provide alternative arrangements and assistance for flights delays or cancellations. However, you may get some benefits from your travel insurance, depending on which company you are insured with, and your individual policy. Make sure you research your level of cover before travel so you know what you are entitled to. Some common types of travel insurance cover are:
Travel Delay: passengers receive a fixed benefit for every 12 hours you are delayed, helping with costs such as food and drinks.
Travel Abandonment: If you are subject to a long delay, you may be given the option to abandon your holiday and claim the cost.
Can I claim compensation for airline strikes?
As part of the EU law, you will be covered and able to claim compensation if your flight departs from an EU airport, if it arrives at an EU airport which didn't depart an EU airport but was on an EU carrier, and is cancelled or arrived at least 3 hours late.
However, airlines are not legally obliged to compensate you if it is outside their control. For example, if it is not the airline itself but is instead the airport or another party, you may not be entitled to compensation.
If you believe you are entitled to compensation, you should complain officially to the airline in writing online or over the phone.
