Lufthansa provides compensation for flight cancellations under certain conditions based on EU Regulation 261/2004. If Lufthansa cancels a flight less than 14 days before departure, passengers may be entitled to compensation unless the cancellation is due to extraordinary circumstances like bad weather, political unrest, or air traffic control issues. The amount of compensation depends on the distance of the flight. For flights up to 1,500 kilometers, the compensation is 250 euros. For flights between 1,500 and 3,500 kilometers, the compensation is 400 euros. For flights over 3,500 kilometers, the compensation is 600 euros. However, if Lufthansa provides an alternative flight that gets the passenger to their destination at a similar time, the compensation may be reduced or not owed. Besides financial compensation, Lufthansa must offer care and assistance during cancellations, including meals, refreshments, and hotel accommodation if an overnight stay is needed. Transportation between the hotel and airport is also included. If passengers choose to cancel their travel due to the cancellation, they can request a full refund of the ticket. Refunds are processed within seven days for credit card payments and may take longer for other methods. Passengers are advised to keep receipts and records of any additional expenses they incur as a result of the cancellation, as Lufthansa may reimburse reasonable costs. If the cancellation occurs while the passenger is already at the airport, Lufthansa staff usually assist with rebooking and support services. If the flight was booked through a travel agency or partner airline, passengers must contact that agency or airline for support. Lufthansa does not provide compensation if passengers accept a rerouting option that meets the required arrival times based on regulation. Compensation also does not apply if the flight is canceled due to reasons outside the airline’s control. In the event of a schedule change, significant delay, or flight cancellation, passengers have the right to choose between a full refund or an alternative flight. The airline must inform passengers of their rights and the steps to claim compensation or assistance. If Lufthansa fails to do so, passengers can still file a compensation claim later. Claims can be submitted with details such as booking reference, flight number, and proof of expenses. Lufthansa reviews each claim based on the regulation and flight details before approving or rejecting the compensation. The airline is responsible for ensuring passengers are not left without support in the event of a last-minute cancellation. If the cancellation happens at the airport, Lufthansa may provide meal vouchers and hotel bookings directly. Passengers should retain their boarding passes, receipts, and communication from the airline to support their claims. Compensation is not available if passengers miss a flight due to their own actions, such as arriving late at the airport. In conclusion, Lufthansa compensates passengers for flight cancellations under EU rules when the cancellation is within the airline’s control and notice is short, along with required assistance and refund options.