What Is the 24-Hour Rule for Lufthansa?

When flying with Lufthansa, many travelers want to understand what the 24-hour rule means and how it applies to their booking. The 24-hour rule for Lufthansa generally refers to two things: free ticket cancellation within 24 hours of booking and the online check-in window, which opens 23 to 24 hours before departure. Let’s start with the first. Lufthansa allows passengers to cancel or modify their reservation without penalty within 24 hours of booking, as long as the booking was made at least seven days before the scheduled flight. This aligns with regulations followed by many international airlines and gives travelers a chance to correct errors, change plans, or reconsider travel details shortly after booking. The 24-hour free cancellation policy can be accessed by logging into your booking through the Lufthansa website or app. Simply go to “My Bookings,” find your flight, and select the cancellation option. If you cancel within the 24-hour grace period, Lufthansa will refund the full amount to your original payment method, with no extra charges. It’s a helpful feature, especially for travelers booking long-haul international flights or making complex itineraries. The second part of the “24-hour rule” often confuses passengers because Lufthansa’s online check-in actually opens 23 hours before departure, not a full 24. This means you can check in, select a seat, and receive your digital boarding pass starting exactly 23 hours before your scheduled flight time. For example, if your flight departs at 3:00 PM on a Saturday, online check-in will be available starting at 4:00 PM on Friday. While some other airlines follow a 24-hour check-in window, Lufthansa’s 23-hour timeframe is standard for their operations and systems. This check-in can be done via the Lufthansa website or mobile app, and travelers are advised to check in as early as possible to secure preferred seating or complete necessary travel document verification. If you miss the 23-hour online check-in, you can still check in at the airport using self-service kiosks or Lufthansa counters, but it’s always best to do it early to avoid delays or long lines. Many travelers combine both rules for better planning—booking with confidence thanks to the 24-hour cancellation policy and setting a reminder for the 23-hour check-in window. In summary, Lufthansa’s 24-hour rule gives passengers flexibility and control over their travel. You can cancel your ticket free of charge within 24 hours of booking and check in online starting 23 hours before your flight. Knowing the difference between these two time-sensitive rules can help you avoid surprises, save time, and enjoy a smoother travel experience. Whether you’re booking an international journey or a short-haul flight within Europe, understanding how Lufthansa’s 24-hour policies work is key to smarter and more confident travel.