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When pilots and flight attendants go on strike, travel plans are thrown into disarray, with flights being cancelled and appointments being missed. However, this can still give travellers grounds for compensation. You are not completely defenceless in this situation.

 

Passenger rights at a glance:

 

1. Compensation
In the event of a flight cancellation or delayed arrival, passengers are entitled to compensation of between 250 and 600 euros. The exact amount depends on the flight route. An exception is staff strikes, which are not an exceptional occurrence and do not justify the release of a compensation payment.

2. Alternative transport
Furthermore, the airline must arrange alternative flights. This includes not only its own flights, but also connections from other airlines. If the organisation responsible for arranging the fastest alternative travel remains unresolved, passengers can book the next available travel option themselves and claim back the costs. This assumes that airlines have the opportunity to organise an alternative, which is not always the case.

3. Support
For long stays at the airport, passengers can use assistance services (e.g. food, drinks and communication). This also includes a hotel stay if necessary. However, this depends on the flight distance. If the airline does not provide support, passengers can arrange their own supplies and bill the airline for them.
Regarding package tours, more than just the ticket applies. Passengers must contact the tour organiser. They must arrange alternatives, but claims for compensation remain against the airline.

 

Liability for incorrect information
But what happens if the airline fails to notify passengers of flight cancellations in time or provides incorrect information? Who is liable?

A judgment by the Higher Regional Court of Frankfurt/Main (Judgement of 27 August 2025 – 16 U 89/24) provides clarity.
In the case of a cancelled long-distance flight without prior notification to the passenger and without the provision of false information (e.g. requiring passengers to arrange replacement transportation themselves), passengers may have significant rights.
This judgment illustrates that, if costly rebooking is required due to misinformation, the airline is obliged to refund the full cost.

Implications for affected passengers: The airline may incur high additional costs for incorrect self-booking under certain circumstances.
Those who know their rights will still arrive safely and with their money.

 

Picture: j0nqh / Pixabay