Yes, Lufthansa does compensate passengers for cancelled flights, but the specifics depend on several factors such as the reason for the cancellation, the notice given, the passenger’s route, and applicable regulations. Like many major airlines, Lufthansa follows the European Union Regulation EC 261/2004, which governs passenger rights in cases of flight delays, cancellations, and denied boarding within the EU. Under this regulation, passengers on flights departing from an EU airport or arriving at an EU airport on an EU carrier, such as Lufthansa, are entitled to compensation if their flight is cancelled unless the cancellation was caused by extraordinary circumstances beyond the airline’s control.

When a Lufthansa flight is cancelled, the airline is obligated to offer passengers either a full refund of the ticket price or re-routing to the final destination at the earliest opportunity, free of additional charge. This means Lufthansa will either book the passenger on the next available flight or arrange alternative transportation depending on availability. The aim is to minimize inconvenience and get passengers to their destination as quickly as possible. Passengers also have the right to receive care during the waiting period, which can include meals, refreshments, and accommodation if an overnight stay becomes necessary due to the cancellation.

Compensation beyond refunds and rebooking depends heavily on the timing of the cancellation notice and the flight distance. For cancellations announced less than 14 days before the scheduled departure, passengers may be entitled to financial compensation ranging between €250 and €600 per passenger under EU rules. The amount varies based on the distance of the flight: shorter flights generally receive €250, medium-haul flights €400, and long-haul flights €600. However, if Lufthansa informs passengers about the cancellation well in advance—more than 14 days before departure—or offers re-routing that allows the passenger to arrive at their final destination close to the original scheduled time, compensation might not be payable.

It’s important to note that Lufthansa and other airlines are exempt from paying compensation if the cancellation results from extraordinary circumstances. These can include extreme weather conditions, political instability, security risks, air traffic control strikes, or technical problems that could not have been prevented despite proper maintenance. In such cases, the airline is still required to assist passengers with rebooking or refunds and provide necessary care, but compensation is generally not granted.

Passengers who experience a cancelled flight with Lufthansa can typically claim compensation by contacting Lufthansa’s customer service directly or submitting a claim through their official website. It is advisable to keep all travel documents, boarding passes, and any correspondence from the airline, as these may be required to support the claim. If Lufthansa refuses to pay compensation and the passenger believes they are entitled to it under the EU regulation, they can escalate the matter to the relevant national enforcement body or seek legal advice.

In summary, Lufthansa does provide compensation for cancelled flights in accordance with EU regulations, offering refunds, rebooking options, and financial compensation when appropriate. The extent of compensation depends on factors such as timing of notification, flight distance, and whether extraordinary circumstances apply. Passengers affected by cancellations can expect support and assistance from Lufthansa, although the process and eligibility for compensation may require careful attention to the details of the situation and applicable laws. Understanding these rights helps travelers navigate cancellations more confidently and assert their entitlements when disruptions occur.