Just in time for the start of the Easter holidays in several German states, significant disruptions to air traffic to Greece are looming. Greek air traffic controllers have announced a 9-hour strike for Wednesday, April 2025, 24. This is expected to result in numerous flight cancellations and delays, which will particularly affect vacationers planning to spend their Easter holidays in Greece. Airport staff had already struck at Greek airports in February, prompting similar wage demands as those in Germany.
Air passenger rights expert Nina Staub of AirHelp pointed out that passengers are generally not entitled to compensation under the European Air Passenger Rights Regulation in the event of an airport staff strike, as this is considered an extraordinary circumstance beyond the control of the airlines. This means that those affected cannot claim a flat-rate compensation of up to €600 per person for canceled or significantly delayed flights.
However, affected passengers still have rights. In the event of a delay of more than five hours or a cancellation, passengers are entitled to a refund of the ticket price or to alternative transportation at the earliest possible time. In such cases, airlines usually offer rebooking on another flight. According to a 2020 ruling by the European Court of Justice, airlines are also obliged to rebook passengers on the fastest possible route, if necessary with another airline or via indirect connections. If the airline does not offer a suitable alternative, passengers can seek their own transportation and bill the airline for the costs. Prior consultation with the airline is advisable.
In addition, for delays of more than two hours, airlines must provide passengers with food and beverages at the airport, as well as the opportunity to make two phone calls or send two emails. If necessary, accommodation, including transfers, must also be arranged. Air travelers should request these services from the airline and retain all receipts in order to claim reimbursement for meals, alternative transportation, or accommodation, if necessary.
and 