Does Lufthansa Compensate for Cancelled Flights?
Yes, Lufthansa does compensate passengers for canceled flights, but it depends on the circumstances of the cancellation. Lufthansa follows the rules set by European Union law, known as EU Regulation 261/2004. This regulation protects air travelers and outlines when compensation is required. If your Lufthansa flight is canceled and you are informed less than 14 days before the departure date, you may be entitled to compensation. However, this applies only if the reason for the cancellation was within Lufthansa’s control, such as technical issues, staffing problems, or other operational difficulties.
The amount of compensation you can receive depends on the distance of your flight. For flights up to 1,500 kilometers, the compensation is €250. For flights between 1,500 and 3,500 kilometers, it is €400. For long-haul flights over 3,500 kilometers, you can receive up to €600. This compensation is in addition to the option of getting a full refund or being rebooked on another flight. Lufthansa usually offers these choices to passengers immediately after a cancellation is confirmed.
However, there are situations where Lufthansa does not have to pay compensation. If the flight was canceled due to “extraordinary circumstances,” the airline is not responsible. These situations include severe weather, natural disasters, political unrest, airport strikes, or air traffic control problems. If such events are the reason for the cancellation, then Lufthansa is not legally required to offer financial compensation, but they will still help you with rebooking or refunds.
If your flight is canceled and you are eligible for compensation, you can submit a claim through the Lufthansa website. They have a passenger rights section where you can fill out a form with your flight and personal details. You will also need to explain the situation and provide any emails or documents related to the cancellation. Lufthansa will review your request and, if approved, the compensation will usually be paid directly to your bank account or credit card.
In some cases, you may need to wait a few weeks for a response, especially if many passengers were affected. If you do not hear back or your claim is rejected, you can contact independent organizations like the German conciliation body for public transport or even use legal services that specialize in flight compensation claims.
Overall, Lufthansa does offer compensation for canceled flights, as long as the cancellation meets the conditions under EU law. It’s important to keep your booking information, stay in contact with the airline, and know your rights. This way, you can be sure that you receive the support and compensation you deserve when your travel plans are unexpectedly changed.