Lufthansa offers unusual transatlantic detour after minor schedule change

Simple Flying contacted Lufthansa regarding these lengthy alternatives. A spokesperson for the airline explained, "This is a particularly rare occurrence, facilitated especially by the low frequency of service on this route (twice-weekly flights to KAO)."

The disruption originated when the Kuusamo-bound flight was delayed by one hour and twenty minutes. Despite being offered complex rerouting options involving long-haul flights or overnight train journeys, the passenger ultimately accepted a more straightforward revised itinerary: departing Lisbon at 15:55 and arriving in Frankfurt at 20:00 on LH 1169 before catching the rescheduled LH 856 to Kuusamo.

For frequent flyers seeking status miles or enhanced onboard service, such a detour might hold appeal. On long-haul business class segments between Europe and North America aboard widebody aircraft like Boeing 787s or 777s operated by United Airlines, passengers can earn significantly more status miles compared to short-haul European flights—potentially gaining half of what's required for Frequent Traveller status in one trip—and enjoy upgraded amenities such as lie-flat seating and improved dining.

Nevertheless, most travelers are likely interested in reaching their destination as directly as possible rather than accumulating extra miles or sampling premium cabins on longer routes.

Lufthansa operates as a full-service carrier with major hubs at Frankfurt and Munich airports and is part of Star Alliance since its founding in 1953.