Lufthansa, like most major airlines, provides different cancellation policies depending on the type of ticket purchased, the timing of the cancellation, and the reason for the change. While not all tickets qualify for free cancellation, there are certain situations where passengers can cancel without penalties. Below is a detailed explanation of Lufthansa’s cancellation policies, including exceptions, refund eligibility, and how to request a cancellation.
Lufthansa follows the 24-hour risk-free cancellation rule, which allows passengers to cancel their flight within 24 hours of booking for a full refund, provided:
The booking was made at least 7 days before departure.
The ticket was purchased directly through Lufthansa’s website, app, or customer service (third-party bookings may have different rules).
This policy applies to all fare types, including non-refundable tickets, and is in line with U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations for flights to/from the United States.
Need to cancel within 24 hours? You can do so online via "My Bookings" or call Lufthansa at 1-866-838-4934 for assistance.
Full refunds are allowed at any time before departure.
Applies to premium fares like Business Class, First Class, and Flex Economy tickets.
No cancellation fees, but processing may take 7–14 business days.
Typically do not qualify for cash refunds.
Cancellation may result in a travel voucher or credit for future flights (minus a fee).
Some exceptions apply (e.g., medical emergencies, military orders).
Tip: If unsure about plans, booking a flexible fare may be worth the extra cost.
If Lufthansa cancels or significantly changes your flight (e.g., schedule shift of 2+ hours), you are entitled to:
A full refund (even on non-refundable tickets).
Free rebooking on the next available flight.
Compensation under EU261 (if flying to/from Europe and cancellation was within 14 days of departure).
How to claim? Request a refund via Lufthansa’s website or call 1-866-838-4934.
Go to "My Bookings" on Lufthansa’s website.
Select your flight and choose "Cancel."
Confirm if you want a refund or travel voucher.
Check your email for confirmation.
Call Lufthansa’s customer service at 1-866-838-4934 for agent assistance.
Processing Time:
Refunds: 7–20 business days (varies by payment method).
Travel vouchers: Issued immediately via email.
Lufthansa may waive cancellation fees in special cases, such as:
Medical emergencies (with documentation).
Death in the family (bereavement policy).
Military deployment orders.
Visa denials (with official proof).
Required: Submit supporting documents via Lufthansa’s refund request form.
During disruptions (e.g., pandemics, natural disasters), Lufthansa often offers:
Fee-free cancellations with full travel vouchers.
Extended voucher validity (up to 2 years in some cases).
Current policy updates can be found on Lufthansa’s official website.
| Scenario | Free Cancellation? | Refund Type |
|---|---|---|
| Within 24 hours of booking | ✅ Yes | Full refund |
| Refundable (Flex) tickets | ✅ Yes | Full refund |
| Non-refundable tickets | ❌ No (Voucher) | Future flight credit |
| Lufthansa cancels flight | ✅ Yes | Refund or rebooking |
| Medical/military exception | ✅ Yes | Case-by-case refund |
Final Advice: Always check your ticket conditions before booking.
For immediate help, contact Lufthansa at 1-866-838-4934.