What are the most usual extraordinary circumstances?

Extraordinary circumstances refer to situations or events that occur outside the control of airlines or passengers and are therefore not the fault of either. Flight disruptions caused by extraordinary circumstances, such as strikes by airport employees or air traffic control, security risks, extreme weather conditions, and political unrest are the most common extraordinary circumstances. In such situations, airlines must ensure the safety of passengers, certify the cause of delay, and provide flight disruption compensation based on the regulations of air passenger rights.

Strikes by airport employees or air traffic control

During periods of legal labor action, such as strikes by airport employees or air traffic control, airlines are expected to take necessary measures that ensure passenger safety. In cases where the quality of operations is compromised due to labor actions, the airline is responsible for providing alternative transportation for passengers and informing them of their rights for a full refund or other compensation. Passengers are typically eligible for compensation when faced with flight delay or cancellation of over three hours due to such extraordinary circumstances.

Security risks

When a flight is disrupted or cancelled due to security risks such as terror threats, active shooter situations, or heinous acts, passengers are not usually entitled to any flight compensation. However, such security risks incidents may be covered by the carrier’s insurance, including coverage under their emergency travel service for passenger delays. The airline may also provide assistance and aid in the form of meetings and hotel accommodations, or may offer alternative transportation when possible.

Extreme weather conditions

Extreme weather conditions such as snowstorms, hurricanes, and heavy rains often cause airline delays and cancellations. However, airlines are also responsible for the safety of their passengers during such circumstances, and airlines are required to provide approved forms of assistance to passengers. Some airlines offer free meals and other amenities rerouted flights or flights under extreme weather conditions. Flight disruptions due to extreme weather conditions are also covered under airline insurance policies, and passengers may be eligible for flight compensation.

Political unrest

Passengers may experience delays or cancellations due to political situations or unrest within a country, such as civil wars or terrorist attacks. When faced with such extraordinary circumstances, airlines must ensure the safety of passengers and provide alternative transportation or accommodation when available. In most cases, passengers are eligible for airline reimbursement with proof of disruption, such as a written statement from the airline. However, some exceptional cases such as extreme political unrest may not qualify for any additional airline compensation.

Conclusion

Extraordinary circumstances such as strikes by airport employees or air traffic control, security risks, extreme weather conditions, and political unrest are some of the most usual disruptions of air travel. Airlines are responsible for ensuring the safety of passengers and providing the necessary alternative forms of assistance when such events occur. In addition, passengers may be eligible for flight compensation when extraordinary circumstances cause delays or cancellations of flights.

Ultimately, when you are familiar with air passenger rights and believe you may be entitled to delayed or cancelled flight compensation, find out which best flight compensation companies can help you. You may also fill out the claim form and one of the agencies will check your flight and take your case.