The Verdi union is further expanding its strike action in the public sector wage dispute. After numerous flight cancellations and delays were recorded last week, eleven German airports are now affected again. These include important hubs such as Frankfurt, Munich and Berlin. The work stoppage begins early in the morning and lasts until midnight. Passengers must prepare for massive restrictions in air traffic.
Since this is a strike by airport staff, it is not the direct responsibility of the airlines. Therefore, affected passengers are generally not entitled to compensation payments under the European Air Passenger Rights Regulation. Nevertheless, passengers do have certain rights: The airlines are obliged to offer alternative transport or to refund the ticket price. Rebooking to the train is possible, especially for domestic flights. If airlines do not provide a reasonable alternative, travelers can arrange a new connection themselves and claim the costs.
In addition, passengers are entitled to certain services during longer waiting times. If the delay is more than two hours, airlines must provide meals and drinks, as well as communication options. If a flight is delayed by more than five hours, passengers can request a full refund of the ticket price. If an overnight stay is necessary, the airlines must pay for the hotel and transport. Experts advise passengers to keep all receipts in order to be able to assert any future claims for reimbursement from the airlines.
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