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Strike cancelled or delayed your flight: can you claim?
Updated 5 November 2026 · General information, not legal advice.
Quick answerWhether you can claim after a strike depends on the cause and whose staff are involved. Airlines often say strikes are extraordinary circumstances, but you can challenge that. Ask the airline for the reason in writing, keep your evidence and escalate if you disagree. You still have rights to a refund or alternative flight.
Your rights regardless
If a flight is cancelled you should be offered a refund or an alternative flight, and care while you wait. See flight cancelled: your rights.
Compensation and strikes
Compensation is where it gets disputed. The CAA lists strikes among the extraordinary circumstances that are not eligible for compensation, and airlines often say a strike is outside their control. Whose staff are striking can matter, so if your claim is refused, ask for the specific reason and see extraordinary circumstances.
Frequently asked questions
Is a strike always an extraordinary circumstance?
Not automatically. It depends on the cause and whose staff are involved. You can challenge a refusal.
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