Lufthansa Delayed Flight: Claim Your EU261 Compensation
If your Lufthansa flight was significantly delayed, you might be entitled to financial compensation. EU261 is a powerful piece of legislation designed to protect air passenger rights. Don't let airlines deny you what you're owed.
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Your rights
Under EU Regulation 261/2004 (EU261), if your flight is delayed by three hours or more upon arrival, and the delay is due to circumstances within the airline's control, you are entitled to compensation. This applies to flights departing from an EU or UK airport, or flights arriving at an EU or UK airport from outside, if operated by an EU or UK airline. Compensation amounts range from €250 to €600, depending on the flight distance.
Step by step
- 1Confirm your eligibility: Check if your flight was delayed by at least three hours upon arrival and if the delay was not caused by 'extraordinary circumstances' like severe weather or air traffic control strikes.
- 2Gather your documents: Keep your booking confirmation, boarding pass, and any receipts for expenses incurred due to the delay, such as meals or accommodation.
- 3Contact Lufthansa: Submit a formal compensation claim directly through Lufthansa's customer service channels, clearly stating your flight details, the delay duration, and your request for EU261 compensation.
- 4Escalate if necessary: If Lufthansa rejects your claim or does not respond within a reasonable timeframe (usually 6-8 weeks), you can escalate your complaint to the relevant National Enforcement Body (NEB) in the country where the incident occurred, or where the airline is registered.
What they'll say, and your comeback
“The delay was due to 'extraordinary circumstances' beyond our control.”
Comeback, Please provide specific evidence demonstrating these extraordinary circumstances and explain why they could not have been avoided or mitigated. Technical faults, for example, are often considered within the airline's control unless they are truly unforeseen and unavoidable.
“You accepted a voucher, so you're not entitled to cash compensation.”
Comeback, Accepting a voucher for inconvenience or future travel does not waive my right to financial compensation under EU261, which is a separate entitlement. I am still claiming the statutory compensation.
FAQ
How long do I have to claim compensation?
The time limit for claiming compensation under EU261 varies by country. In the UK, it's six years from the flight date. In Germany, it's three years. Always check the specific rules for the country where your claim is being processed.
What if the delay caused me to miss a connecting flight?
If your initial Lufthansa flight delay caused you to miss a connecting flight, and you arrived at your final destination three or more hours late, you are still eligible for compensation based on the total delay to your final destination, provided the flights were part of the same booking.
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A self-serve tool, not a law firm. General information, not legal advice.