Under unexpected conditions, sometimes your flight plans may need to be canceled. If you have booked with Lufthansa Airlines, it is important to navigate your options, whether you are looking for refund, travel vouchers, or simply need to know the implications of flying. A major European carrier Lufthansa has specific rules that roughly depend on the fare type you purchased and your cancellation time.
Can I cancel my Lufthansa Airlines flight for free?
Yes, there are specific circumstances where you may be able to cancel your Lufthansa flight without imposing a fine:
· 24-hour rule: Lufthansa usually provides a 24-hour grace period. If you cancel your flight within 24 hours of original booking, you are usually eligible for full refunds. This applies that your booking has been made at least seven days before the prescribed departure of the flight. This important rule allows for immediate improvement or changes of mind without financial results, making it a major component of the Lufthansa Airlines cancellation policy.
· Flexible Rets (Flex ticket): If you have chosen the "flex" rent (e.g., economy flex, premium economy flex, business flex, or first flex) at the time of booking, your ticket naturally provides more flexibility. These fares are designed for travelers who estimate possible changes or cancellation. While some flex fares may still have a small administrative fee, many offer free cancellation with corresponds to your original payment method, or the option to convert the price into a voucher.
· Airline-RERECEDECS: If the Lufthansa cancels your flight due to operational reasons, technical issues, or other factors within their control, you are entitled to a free re-booking on a full refund or an alternative flight. This applies regardless of your original fare type. In addition, if your flight is canceled from the European Union or with less time notice, you may also be eligible for additional compensation under the Regulation of the European Union 261/2004, provided that the cancellation is not due to extraordinary conditions (such as severe weather or air traffic control strikes).
What are the fees for cancelling a Lufthansa Airlines flight after 24 hours?
Beyond the initial 24-hour window, the Lufthansa Airlines cancellation policy becomes more restrictive, and the fees or boundaries you purchased will apply:
1. Economy Light Fare: These are the most restrictive and usually non-worthy of 24-hour grace period of Lufthansa. If you cancel an economy light ticket, you will usually seize the entire fare. In some cases, only government taxes and charges may be refundable.
2. Economy Classic/Basic/Basic Plus and Business Saver Fair: These fares usually do not offer a contractual refund for voluntary cancellation. If you cancel these tickets, the fare amount is usually seized. Similar to economy lights, you may be able to claim refunds for some unused taxes and charges.
3. Other fare: For other rent types (e.g., high economy levels, premium economy basic/basic plus, business basic/basic plus, first original/basic plus), can be allowed to be cancelled, but will receive a cancellation fee. The specific fee varies significantly based on the amount:
· Your route (e.g., domestic vs. intercontinental).
· Specific fare conditions of your ticket.
· How close to your departure date you are (fees often increase close to flight).
The exact amount of any cancellation fee will be outlined during booking and in the situations visible on the confirmation of your booking. If your ticket is partially used (for example, you have blown outbound legs, but want to cancel the return), then the refund calculation will be the pro- rata based on unused parts and rent rules.
Related Blog: How Can I Change My KLM Flight Without Fees?
How do I cancel my Lufthansa Airlines flight?
The most convenient way to cancel your flight is online through the "My Booking" section on the official website of Lufthansa. You will need your surname and booking code. Whatever booking can be cancelled will be displayed with the "cancellation" button. If you have booked your flight through a travel agency, it is usually recommended to cancel them and contact them directly for refund, as they are record traders. If you face online difficulties or have complex conditions, it is advisable to contact the Lufthansa customer service by the phone. Always try to cancel your flight before your scheduled departure time, as no-shows can force your ticket price.