Lufthansa does charge a cancellation penalty depending on the type of ticket purchased, the route, and how close to the flight departure the cancellation is made π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ). One of the key features of Lufthansaβs cancellation policy is the 24-hour risk-free cancellation window, which allows passengers to cancel their booking within 24 hours and receive a full refund without any penalty, provided the flight departure is at least seven days away π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ). This rule applies to all tickets booked directly through Lufthansa, giving travelers the flexibility to change their plans shortly after booking without any fees π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ).
Outside the 24-hour window, cancellation penalties depend heavily on the fare class π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ). Fully refundable tickets such as business, first class, premium economy, and flexible economy fares generally have no cancellation penalty, allowing passengers to cancel up until the departure time and receive a full refund π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ). These tickets generally cost more but provide significant flexibility and convenience π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ). On the other hand, non-refundable tickets, including Basic Economy and many discounted fares, incur cancellation fees if canceled after the risk-free period π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ). The penalty can range between approximately β¬65 and β¬110 (roughly $70 to $120) depending on the route and fare conditions π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ).
For cancellations made close to departure, especially less than a week in advance, Lufthansa typically applies the highest cancellation fee according to the ticket type π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ). In many cases, the base fare for non-refundable tickets is forfeited, and only the tax portion might be eligible for refund, with the balance converted into travel credits valid for future travel π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ).
If Lufthansa cancels a flight, passengers are not subject to cancellation penalties and may choose between full refunds or rebooking on the next available flight π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ). Additionally, Lufthansa provides assistance for those delayed overnight or impacted by cancellations in the form of hotel stays, meal vouchers, and transportation between airport and hotel π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ). This is in line with passenger protection regulations such as EU EC 261 π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ).
Passengers can manage cancellations and requests online via Lufthansaβs βMy Bookingsβ portal or by contacting customer service π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ). Refunds and penalties are clearly outlined during the cancellation process so travelers can understand the fees before confirming π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ). Refund processing times vary but typically take between 7 to 10 business days π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ). For tickets booked through third-party agencies, cancellation policies and penalties might vary, and passengers should verify with their booking source π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ).
In conclusion, Lufthansaβs cancellation policy includes a no-penalty 24-hour cancellation window π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ). Refundable tickets offer full refunds with no penalty up to departure π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ). Non-refundable tickets incur cancellation fees ranging from approximately β¬65 to β¬110 outside the risk-free period π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ). Airline-initiated cancellations do not incur penalties, with passengers entitled to refunds or rebooking π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ). Passengers can contact Lufthansa at +π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ) for detailed, personalized assistance π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ). Understanding cancellation fees helps travelers avoid surprises and make confident booking choices π§π+π· - πΎπ»π» ( πππ ) ( ππππ ).