Denied boarding by Lufthansa:your rights and up to €600
Did Lufthansa deny boarding despite a valid booking and timely arrival at the gate? Involuntary denied boarding, particularly after overbooking, may give you an immediate right to compensation and transport options.
The amount depends on the route and applicable rules, not on the ticket price.
Involuntary denied boarding may entitle you to €250, €400 or €600
You normally need a confirmed booking, timely presentation and no valid health, safety or documentation reason for refusal.
Compensation is in addition to the choice between refund and rerouting and to care while waiting.
The amount depends on the route and applicable rules, not on the ticket price.
Volunteer or involuntary refusal: what is the difference?
The agreement signed and the way Lufthansa asked for volunteers are essential.
You volunteer
The accepted agreement may offer negotiated benefits and change the fixed compensation right.
Involuntary refusal
If you did not agree to give up your seat, compensation may be immediately due.
Valid reason
Documents, health or safety can justify refusal without fixed compensation.
The amount depends on the route and applicable rules, not on the ticket price.
Involuntary denied boarding may entitle you to €250, €400 or €600
You normally need a confirmed booking, timely presentation and no valid health, safety or documentation reason for refusal.
Your ticket and booking were valid for the flight.
You respected check-in and boarding-gate deadlines.
You did not freely agree to give up your seat.
When can Lufthansa denied boarding be compensated?
Confirmed booking
Your ticket and booking were valid for the flight.
Timely presentation
You respected check-in and boarding-gate deadlines.
Involuntary refusal
You did not freely agree to give up your seat.
No valid reason
The refusal was not based on health, safety or missing documents.
Evidence to keep after Lufthansa denied boarding
Compensation is in addition to the choice between refund and rerouting and to care while waiting.
Booking and original itinerary.
Boarding pass and proof of arrival.
Written reason supplied by Lufthansa.
Necessary meals, hotel and transport.
What should you do immediately after denied boarding?
Request written proof
Ask Lufthansa to state the flight, reason and involuntary nature.
Choose a solution
Request a refund or rerouting to the final destination.
Request care
Ask for meals, drinks, hotel and transport when required.
Keep evidence
Retain the booking, boarding pass, new route and receipts.
Have the refusal, itinerary and evidence checked to determine the amount you may claim.
Lufthansa denied boarding FAQ
Must Lufthansa pay immediately?
Fixed compensation should generally be paid without delay when the conditions for involuntary denied boarding are met.
Can I choose a refund?
Depending on the circumstances, you may choose a ticket refund or rerouting to the final destination.
Is overbooking an extraordinary circumstance?
No. Commercial overbooking is generally not an extraordinary circumstance.
What if I accepted a voucher?
Check what you accepted. A voucher or volunteer agreement may have different consequences depending on its wording.
Must Lufthansa pay for a hotel?
When rerouting requires an overnight stay, reasonable accommodation and transport may be due.
Were you denied boarding by Lufthansa?
Have the refusal, itinerary and evidence checked to determine the amount you may claim.
The amount depends on the route and applicable rules, not on the ticket price.