Understanding how Industrial Strike Action can affect your travel plans

Industrial strike action, or “Streik” in German, occurs when workers stop working to demand better wages, conditions, or benefits. In the airline industry, strikes can involve security staff, ground handling crews, pilots, or air traffic controllers, each causing different levels of disruption.

Take control

Warning Strike

is a short-term work stoppage during ongoing negotiations, used to demonstrate workers’ willingness to strike without completely halting operations. It does not require a formal vote and can happen at any stage of the negotiation process.

Possibilities

Full Strike

A full strike (Erzwingungsstreik) occurs when negotiations have officially failed, and a formal vote has been conducted among union members. This type of strike is meant to enforce specific demands and can lead to longer disruptions.

Possible effects of Strike action

The impact of a strike depends on which group of workers is involved:

Security Staff Strikes:
Expect long delays at security checkpoints, limited airport access, and potential flight cancellations.
Ground Staff Strikes:
Baggage handling, check-in, and airport services may be severely affected, leading to flight delays and luggage issues.
Pilot or Cabin Crew Strikes:
Only flights from the affected airline will be impacted, but delays and cancellations can still be widespread.
Air Traffic Control Strikes:
This can cause massive disruptions across multiple airlines, affecting both departures and arrivals.

In some cases, airports may continue operating with a reduced workforce, while in others, flights may be completely suspended or rerouted to other airports.

Tips for Flying During Industrial Strike action

Disclaimer - The information provided on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or professional travel advice. Travelers are encouraged to check directly with airlines, airports, and official sources for the latest updates.

Before Your Flight:

✔️ Airline and routes: Some airlines are more affected by strike action than others. For instance, Middle Eastern carriers are less impacted by strikes, as their staff rarely participate in strikes.
✔️ Sign Up for Alerts: Many airlines offer SMS or email updates about flight changes. Enable notifications to stay informed.
✔️ Apps: Download the airline and airport apps on your mobile phone, and enable notifications.
✔️ Correct contact details: Make sure the airline and/or travel agent has your correct contact details.
✔️ Travel Insurance: A good policy can cover unexpected costs due to delays or cancellations.

If your flight is still scheduled

✔️ Flight Status: Check your flight status online in advance or contact your airline.
✔️ Arrive Early: Security and check-in lines can be longer than usual, so plan extra time
✔️ Use Online Check-In: Avoid long queues by checking in online and downloading your boarding pass.
✔️ Pack Smart: Stick to hand luggage if possible, as checked baggage delays are common during strikes.
✔️ Bring Essentials: Have snacks, water, chargers, and entertainment in case you’re stuck at the airport for a while.

If Your Flight Is Canceled or Delayed:

✔️ Know Your Passenger Rights: Under EU regulations (EC 261/2004), you may be entitled to compensation or alternative transport if your flight is significantly delayed or cancelled.
✔️ Contact Your Airline Immediately: Rebooking options can fill up quickly, so act fast to secure another flight or an alternative arrangement. If you do not get through to the call centre, try using social media channels and chatbots. Make sure you know who the operating airline is for example a Lufthansa flight operated by Swiss. In this case, you need to contact Swiss for any re-bookings. The affected airline is responsible to assist passengers with the first available replacement flight option. If you booked through a Travel Agent, the airline might refer you back them for handling changes.
❌ Do Not Cancel Your Ticket Yourself: If your flight is cancelled, avoid cancelling your ticket on your own, as this could affect your rights and the airline’s responsibility to offer rebooking, refunds, or compensation. If you do decide to cancel your ticket, your contract with the airline ends, and you will get a refund depending on your ticket conditions. Also, if you cancel the ticket, all passenger flights on this booking code will be cancelled.
✔️ Stay Calm & Flexible: Flight disruptions are stressful, but a patient and proactive approach can help you find the best solution quickly.

Why You Should NOT Cancel Your Ticket Yourself

If your flight is cancelled, do not cancel your ticket yourself, as this can affect your rights and the airline’s responsibility toward you. Here’s why:

Airline Repsponibility

$50.99

Under EU Passenger Rights (Regulation EC 261/2004), if the airline cancels your flight, you are entitled to a full refund or a rebooking, and in some cases, financial compensation. If you cancel the ticket yourself, it may be treated as a voluntary cancellation, meaning you could lose these benefits.

Accomodation and Meals

$599.99

If your flight is canceled by the airline and you are stranded, they are required to provide meals, refreshments, and accommodation if the next available flight is the following day. If you cancel the ticket yourself, you may lose these benefits and have to cover extra costs.

Travel Insurance and Refunds

$19.99

Cancelling your ticket yourself may void travel insurance claims, as insurers often require proof that the airline was responsible. Additionally, if you booked a non-refundable ticket, you may not get any money back if you cancel independently.

What Should You Do Instead?

✔️ Wait for the airline to officially cancel the flight to keep your rights intact.
✔️ Contact the airline for rebooking options. You should get messages from the airline, where they ask you whether you want to cancel your flight or re-book your flight. Re-booking can usually be done via the Airline’s website or app. Do not re-book before you receive notification from the airline that there is an issue with your flight. If you feel unsure, do the re-booking via their call centre
✔️ Keep receipts for expenses (hotels, meals, transport) in case you need to claim reimbursement.
✔️ Know your rights under EU 261 to ensure the airline fulfils its obligations.

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