What are your rights if your flight is affected by strike action?

Friday, 14 February 2020 09:00

We've looked into your rights as a passenger, if your flight is cancelled due to strike action.

Did you know that your right to compensation depends on the circumstances of the strike?

Compensation cannot be claimed for ‘extraordinary circumstances’ as these are not under the airline’s control. For example, adverse weather conditions.

Third party strikes, such as those by airport baggage handlers, would also not be considered the responsibility of the airline. However, when strikes are carried out by an airline’s own employees, then they are held accountable for the payment of passenger compensation.  

Compensation, even for airline strike action, is ultimately only entitled under EU law if you hear from the airline less than 14 days from the date you’re due to fly that your flight is cancelled. If they warned you of the cancellation at least two weeks before your scheduled departure, you will not be able to get compensation but will still be able to receive a refund. 

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