What happened
North America Miles & More awards on Lufthansa can still cost about 1,000 euros in cash plus miles each way after the latest fuel-surcharge increase. LoyaltyLobby reports the new round raised YQ/YR fees 10-25% depending on the itinerary. The increase applies to every Lufthansa Group route on both paid tickets and award tickets.
This is the carrier's third such hike in 2026. Together with earlier 2026 hikes, some First Class awards to the United States now cost up to 71% more in surcharges. LoyaltyLobby calls First Class to the United States Lufthansa's most expensive redemption for fuel surcharges.
CEO Carsten Spohr said the Iran conflict may push extra fuel costs above the 1.5 billion euros previously cited, after full-year fuel costs were already projected at 8.7 billion euros. The carrier is raising ticket prices and making cutbacks at the core brand to offset those costs.
Skip Lufthansa-operated award tickets unless the miles cost almost nothing, and use United or Avianca Lifemiles instead.
- Numbers
- 10-25%: this round's fuel surcharge increase by route
- 71%: combined 2026 fuel surcharge increase on some First Class U.S. awards
- 1000 Euro: approximate cash due each way on North America award tickets
- €1.5 billion: previously cited extra fuel costs that may be exceeded
- €8.7 billion: projected full-year fuel costs
- Where
- North America, Frankfurt, Houston, Duesseldorf, Chicago, United States
- Takeaway
- Avoid Lufthansa-operated awards unless miles were earned very cheaply, and look at partners such as United or Avianca Lifemiles that add little or no fuel surcharge.