Yes, Lufthansa does offer compensation for flight cancellations under certain conditions, especially when the cancellation is within the airline's control. If your Lufthansa flight is cancelled, your rights to compensation and assistance depend on several factors such as the reason for the cancellation, the timing, and the distance of your flight. According to European Union Regulation EC 261/2004, which applies to all flights departing from an EU country or arriving in the EU on an EU-based airline like Lufthansa, passengers may be entitled to compensation if their flight is cancelled less than 14 days before departure. The regulation outlines specific compensation amounts based on the flight distance: for flights up to 1,500 kilometers, passengers may receive €250; for flights between 1,500 and 3,500 kilometers, the amount is €400; and for flights longer than 3,500 kilometers, compensation can be as high as €600. However, compensation is not granted in cases where the cancellation was due to extraordinary circumstances, such as severe weather, political instability, security risks, or air traffic control strikes—situations beyond the airline’s control.

If your Lufthansa flight is cancelled, the airline is also obligated to offer you a choice between a full refund of your unused ticket or rebooking you on an alternative flight to your final destination at the earliest opportunity. If you choose a refund and your journey has already started, Lufthansa must also provide a return flight to your original point of departure. Additionally, if the cancellation forces you to wait for a rebooked flight, Lufthansa must provide care during the delay. This includes meals and refreshments in proportion to the waiting time, hotel accommodation if an overnight stay is necessary, and transport between the airport and the hotel. You also have the right to two phone calls, emails, or faxes free of charge.

The right to compensation applies only when the airline informs you of the cancellation fewer than 14 days before the flight. If you were notified more than 14 days in advance, Lufthansa is not required to pay financial compensation, although you are still entitled to a refund or rebooking. If Lufthansa offers you an alternative flight and it arrives within a certain time frame of your original arrival time, the compensation amount may be reduced or waived. For example, if the replacement flight gets you to your destination within two to four hours of the originally scheduled time, compensation may be reduced by 50%.

To claim compensation, you can fill out a compensation form on Lufthansa’s website or contact their customer service. You may need to provide your booking details and an explanation of the situation. Lufthansa typically processes valid compensation claims within a few weeks, although response times can vary. In summary, Lufthansa follows EU regulations and offers compensation and assistance when applicable. Knowing your rights as a passenger ensures that you receive fair treatment in the event of a flight cancellation.