- Flight Disruptions
- Lufthansa to operate over half of flights during 12–13 March pilots’ strike
Lufthansa to operate over half of flights during 12–13 March pilots’ strike
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Eligible for compensation
By Josh Arnfield
Last updated on March 12, 2026
What Happened
A two-day strike by the Vereinigung Cockpit union will affect pilots at Lufthansa Passenger Airlines, Lufthansa Cargo and Lufthansa CityLine from 00:01 on 12 March to 23:59 on 13 March 2026. Lufthansa has introduced special measures and expects to operate more than half of scheduled flights on both days, including around 60% of long-haul services. Some routes to 13 Middle Eastern destinations are exempt. Passengers may claim rights under EC261, including compensation, rebooking or refunds, care, and accommodation where required.
If you experience a disruption related to the Lufthansa Pilot Strike, check if you're eligible for up to €600 in compensation using our FREE flight checker.
Passengers affected by this flight disruption may be eligible for compensation of up to $650 under passenger rights regulations.
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Flight Disruption Details
A two-day pilots’ strike called by the Vereinigung Cockpit union is scheduled from 00:01 on Thursday, 12 March, until 23:59 on Friday, 13 March 2026. The industrial action covers pilots at Lufthansa Passenger Airlines, Lufthansa Cargo and Lufthansa CityLine, following unresolved talks on pension contributions and pay.
Lufthansa has announced special operational measures, including a revised timetable, and expects to run more than 50% of its overall flight program on both strike days. Long-haul services are projected to operate at roughly 60% of normal levels. The airline notes that volunteer pilots will support continued operations, and assistance will also come from other Lufthansa Group airlines and partner carriers.
Certain routes are excluded from the strike. Flights to 13 destinations in the Middle East, including countries such as Egypt, Israel, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, are set to continue. The union cited geopolitical instability and humanitarian transport needs as reasons for these exemptions.
Passengers whose flights are affected are entitled to protections under EU Regulation 261/2004. As strikes by an airline’s own staff are not treated as extraordinary circumstances, compensation of up to €600 per person may be due in cases of qualifying cancellations or delays, depending on the route distance and timing. Lufthansa must also offer rebooking or refunds, as well as provide meals, refreshments and accommodation where necessary.
Lufthansa anticipates that operations will largely return to normal on Saturday, 14 March 2026. Travelers should review their booking status and follow airline instructions regarding check-in and boarding times.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights
When your flight's disrupted, you may be entitled to various forms of care and compensation under EC 261 and other applicable laws.
Up to €600 compensation
Passengers whose flights were canceled or delayed over 3 hours may be entitled to financial compensation ranging from €250 to €600 per person. Check your flight.
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. You may also get a full refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Care and assistance
Your airline must provide food and refreshments if your journey is delayed more than a few hours.
Accommodation
If you are away from home and your journey is delayed overnight, the airline must offer you accommodation and transportation to it.
Communication
Under EC 261 you are entitled to 2 phone calls or emails if your journey is delayed over 1 hour.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Summary
Disruption
Cancellation
Cause
Airline strike
Status
Future – confirmed disruption
Compensation
Could be eligible for up to $650 compensation
Airlines affected
Lufthansa Passenger Airlines, Lufthansa Cargo, Lufthansa CityLine
Start date
2026-03-12
End date
2026-03-13
Checked by
Josh Arnfield
Date updated
March 12, 2026
What To Do If Your Flight Is Cancelled
If you’re traveling to or from the European Union, here’s what to do when your flight is unexpectedly scrubbed:
Collect proof that your flight was canceled, e.g. boarding pass, vouchers and any other travel documents.
Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the cancellation and reasons behind it.
Request an alternate flight to your destination - or a refund.
Make a note of the arrival time at your destination.
Ask the airline to pay for your meals and refreshments.
Don't sign anything or accept any offers that may waive your rights.
Get the airline to provide you with a hotel room, if needed.
Keep your receipts if your canceled flight ends up costing you extra money.
