What to do in case of a strike if you are on a business trip

When traveling for business, every minute is precious. But often, even the best-laid plans are ruined by uncontrollable circumstances. One possible risk is the possibility of flight delays due to a strike.

Since 2020, many airports have seen workers go on strike, first over layoffs, then over poor working conditions. The situation is more stable now and the number of strikes has decreased, but they still happen and can have a big impact on your plans. We'll tell you what to do in this case and how to protect yourself.

How do you know if there will be a strike?

Most often, employees notify management in advance about when and in what form the strike will take place. And the company is obliged to notify the passenger about changes in the flight schedule . A letter with important information will be sent to your email, so always check it.

How to proceed?

There are several options to deal with a strike: wait, rebook, or claim compensation. First, decide which option suits you best.

How to get compensation?

In case of immediate flight cancellation, the airline offers to book a seat on another plane or pay compensation. The amount of compensation is determined by the carrier, on average it ranges from 125€ to 600€.

If a passenger agrees to wait for a flight, he or she has the right to certain services. After a delay of more than one hour, the company must provide a document with an official explanation of the reason.

After two hours, the carrier is obliged to provide free drinks and snacks. After three, feel free to ask for a hot meal (the option is available every six hours). It is at this point that companies usually offer to rebook the ticket for another flight.

Five hours of waiting is a critical point. Here the passenger has the right to return the ticket and demand compensation and return to the starting point if the flight was with a transfer.

If you agree to wait for the flight further, then after six hours at night and eight hours during the day, the company is obliged to pay for the hotel room and transfer to it. When the waiting period reaches 12 hours, they will organize free accommodation at the hotel and return the money for the purchase of essential items (keep the receipts).

What documents are needed?

To receive monetary compensation for a cancelled flight, keep all documents: a letter warning about the strike, tickets, receipts for additional expenses. If the flight was a connecting one and you missed the second one, add these documents as well.

Where to apply?

You need to contact the company's support. Don't know how to contact? Check with a representative at the airport or look for the support tab on the official website.

How to change plans?

Flight rescheduling can have a significant impact on your trip. Most importantly, notify your management and the employee who organizes business trips in a timely manner . And constantly stay in touch with the airline representative to understand whether the flight will take place.

How to get back home?

If you decide to return your tickets, then returning home is your personal concern. Find suitable transport yourself and pay for it. Keep in mind that you will not receive compensation for the flight cancellation immediately, but in a week at best.

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