No direct Delta AARP discounts
It is a common misconception that major airlines offer direct percentage-based discounts to AARP members. Unfortunately, Delta Air Lines does not provide a specific, direct discount for AARP membership. The special pricing that AARP members receive is facilitated through a third-party booking platform, specifically the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia. By booking flights through this portal, members can access exclusive rates on various travel components, which can sometimes include Delta flights.
Accessing potential Delta flight savings through AARP
The key to unlocking potential savings on Delta flights as an AARP member is to use the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia. This platform aggregates deals from various travel providers, including airlines, and applies members-only discounts.
To search for flights, visit the AARP Travel Center and navigate to the flights tab. Enter your trip details, and the platform will display various options, with potential AARP-specific discounts automatically applied or indicated. It is important to compare the price found on the AARP portal with the price on Delta's main website to ensure you are getting the best deal. Sometimes, Delta's own promotional or low-fare specials may be better than the AARP rate.
Other AARP travel benefits
The benefits for AARP members often extend beyond flights and can be quite comprehensive. Some common travel benefits include:
- Hotel discounts: Extra 10% off select hotels booked through the AARP Travel Center.
- Car rentals: Up to 30% off select car rentals with partners like Avis and Budget.
- Vacation packages: Exclusive rates on vacation bundles, and sometimes a bonus gift card.
- Cruises: Potential onboard credits for cruises booked through the Travel Center.
Unadvertised Delta senior discounts
While there is no direct Delta AARP discount, Delta does offer unadvertised senior fares for passengers aged 65 and older. These special fares are not available online and cannot be booked through Delta's website. To inquire about and book a senior discount, you must call Delta's reservations line directly at 1-800-221-1212.
How to book a Delta senior fare
- Call Delta Reservations: Contact the airline's customer service number specifically to ask about senior discounts.
- State your eligibility: Inform the agent that you are inquiring about a senior citizen discount and provide your travel details.
- Compare fares: After the agent provides a senior fare, compare it against other online rates. Sometimes, a regular promotional fare is cheaper than the senior rate, particularly on heavily discounted routes or during sales.
- Confirm booking: If the senior fare offers the best value, proceed with the booking over the phone.
Other ways to save on Delta flights
In addition to potential AARP and senior discounts, several other strategies can help you save money on Delta flights:
- Be flexible with travel dates: Prices fluctuate significantly. Flying during off-peak times, such as mid-week, can be much cheaper than weekends.
- Book in advance: Planning your travel ahead of time often results in lower fares. As the departure date nears, prices tend to increase.
- Use Delta SkyMiles: Accumulating and redeeming miles for flights is an effective way to save, especially for frequent travelers. Holders of the Delta SkyMiles American Express Card can get an additional 15% off Award Travel bookings with the TakeOff 15 benefit.
- Compare airports: Flying into or out of alternative, smaller airports near your destination can sometimes provide a lower fare.
- Check Delta's Deals page: The official Delta website has a dedicated section for current flight deals, which are updated regularly.
Comparison of discount methods
| Discount Method | Eligibility | Booking Method | Potential Savings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AARP Travel Center | Active AARP members (18+) | Online via Expedia-AARP portal | Varies by deal; sometimes includes flight packages | Not a direct Delta discount; savings are through a third party. |
| Delta Senior Fares | Travelers 65+ | Phone call to Delta Reservations | Varies by route and availability (e.g., 5-15%) | Not available online; must call to check and book. |
| Delta SkyMiles Program | Anyone with a SkyMiles account | Online or via phone; use accumulated miles | Varies based on miles redeemed | Good for frequent flyers; additional savings for cardholders. |
| TakeOff 15 (Amex) | Holders of eligible Delta SkyMiles Amex Card | Online via Delta website/app; book with miles | 15% off Award Travel flights | Excludes partner-operated flights, taxes, and fees. |
Conclusion
In summary, while Delta does not offer a direct AARP discount, there are viable alternatives for travelers seeking savings. AARP members should utilize the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia, which can sometimes provide deals on Delta flights, particularly when booking flight packages. For those aged 65 and older, the best approach is to call Delta's reservations line directly to inquire about special, unadvertised senior fares. By comparing these senior fares against regular online promotions and leveraging other strategies like being flexible with travel dates or using SkyMiles, travelers can significantly increase their chances of securing the best possible price for their Delta flight.
An effective strategy for travelers is to check the AARP Travel Center first, then check Delta's website for general promotions, and finally call Delta reservations as a final step to compare any potential unadvertised senior discounts. This multi-pronged approach ensures all potential avenues for savings have been explored.
