Lufthansa Cancellation & Change Policy (2026)

Flights to/from the US can be cancelled within 24 hours of booking without penalty, provided the booking was made at least 7 days before departure.

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Page updated: August 2026

24-Hour Rule

Yes — free cancellation within 24 hours of booking. Flights to/from the US can be cancelled within 24 hours of booking without penalty, provided the booking was made at least 7 days before departure.

Cancellation Fees

Fare ClassFee
Basic EconomyEconomy Light: Non-refundable (only taxes/fees may be refunded).
Main CabinEconomy Classic: Non-refundable or high fee depending on route.
PremiumPremium Economy: Cancellation permitted for a fee.
BusinessBusiness: Cancellation permitted for a fee; Business Flex is fully refundable.

Change Fees

Fare ClassFee
Basic EconomyEconomy Light: Changes not permitted on most routes (except some rebooking options with a fee).
Main CabinEconomy Classic: Changes permitted for a fee (typically €70-€150) plus fare difference.
PremiumPremium Economy: Changes permitted for a fee plus fare difference.
BusinessBusiness: Changes permitted, often free or for a lower fee depending on the specific fare (Business Saver vs. Flex).

Refund Method

Refunds are issued to the original form of payment. Non-refundable tickets may only refund unused taxes and fees.

Same-Day Change

Same-day changes are available on certain short-haul routes for Flex tickets or for a fee on other fares.

No-Show Policy

If you fail to show up for a flight, onward or return flights may be automatically cancelled. No-show fees apply.

If Lufthansa Cancels Your Flight

When an airline cancels or significantly changes your flight, U.S. Department of Transportation regulations require the airline to provide a full refund to the original form of payment — including ticket price, taxes, fees, and any paid extras — regardless of fare type.

Under DOT rules, a "significant change" includes: arrival delayed 3+ hours (domestic) or 6+ hours (international), a change in departure or arrival airport, additional connections, or an involuntary downgrade to a lower class of service.

The refund must be issued automatically within 7 business days for credit card purchases or 20 calendar days for other payment methods. Airlines may offer travel credits or vouchers as an alternative, but must inform you of your right to a cash refund. You are not required to accept a voucher.

Source: U.S. Department of Transportation, Aviation Consumer Protection — Refunds (transportation.gov/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/refunds, last updated November 7, 2025).

How to Cancel

  1. Log in to your booking on the Lufthansa website or app using your booking code.
  2. Select 'My Bookings' and choose the flight you wish to cancel.
  3. Click on 'Cancellations' and review the refund amount.
  4. Confirm the cancellation to process the refund to your original payment method.

Tips

  • Always check the fare conditions before booking, as Economy Light is highly restrictive.
  • If your flight is delayed by more than 2 hours or cancelled by Lufthansa, you are entitled to a full refund.
  • Taxes and airport fees are usually refundable even on non-refundable tickets.
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance for unexpected cancellations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lufthansa cancellation policy?
Lufthansa offers free cancellation within 24 hours of booking, plus fare-class-based fees after that window closes. Refund method: Refunds are issued to the original form of payment. Non-refundable tickets may only refund unused taxes and fees.
Can I cancel a Lufthansa flight for free?
Yes — Flights to/from the US can be cancelled within 24 hours of booking without penalty, provided the booking was made at least 7 days before departure.
What is Lufthansa cancellation policy after 24 hours?
Once the 24-hour window expires, fees apply by fare class. Main Cabin: Economy Classic: Non-refundable or high fee depending on route.. Basic Economy: Economy Light: Non-refundable (only taxes/fees may be refunded).. Premium: Premium Economy: Cancellation permitted for a fee..
What is Lufthansa's change fee?
Main Cabin: Economy Classic: Changes permitted for a fee (typically €70-€150) plus fare difference.. Basic Economy: Economy Light: Changes not permitted on most routes (except some rebooking options with a fee)..
How do I get a refund from Lufthansa?
Refunds are issued to the original form of payment. Non-refundable tickets may only refund unused taxes and fees.
What happens if I no-show on Lufthansa?
If you fail to show up for a flight, onward or return flights may be automatically cancelled. No-show fees apply.