Airline staff strikes: you can claim
The Court of Justice ruled in Krüsemann (C-195/17) and in Airhelp v SAS (C-28/20) that strikes by an airline's own pilots or cabin crew, including legal strikes called by unions, are not extraordinary circumstances. You can claim compensation.
Air traffic control and airport strikes: usually not
Strikes by air traffic controllers, security staff or airport workers are outside the airline's control and normally exempt it from paying compensation. You keep your right to care and to a refund or rerouting.
Strikes announced in advance
Even if a strike was announced early, the 14-day rule applies: if the airline cancelled your flight less than 14 days before departure, compensation can still be due.
Common questions
What if the airline's subcontractor went on strike?
It depends on the case. Ground handling staff working for the airline can count as the airline's responsibility. We check the details.