Senior Flight Discounts Vary by Airline and Route
Unlike in the past, a universal senior citizen flight discount is no longer standard practice. Instead, many airlines offer targeted, and often unadvertised, discounts that can vary significantly depending on the carrier, route, time of booking, and availability. While a 10% discount on the full fare price was once common, modern savings are often more complex, sometimes requiring phone calls or membership in organizations like AARP to unlock.
United States-Based Airline Discounts
For senior travelers in the U.S., major carriers like American, Delta, and United still offer special fares for passengers typically aged 65 and older. These fares are often not visible during a standard online search and must be requested specifically by selecting a "Senior" or "65+" passenger option or by calling the airline directly. Frontier Airlines has been noted for offering significant promotional discounts, sometimes as high as 55% for those 55 and older, though these are typically limited-time offers with specific restrictions.
- American Airlines: Discounts for travelers 65+ are available on select international routes, often ranging from 10% to 15% off the base fare. Domestic discounts are less common and may require a phone reservation to check availability.
- Delta Air Lines: Senior fares are offered in certain markets for passengers 65 and over but are not available online. Booking these fares requires a phone call to the reservations department.
- United Airlines: Provides discounts for passengers 65+ to select destinations. Travelers can find these fares on United's website by selecting the “Seniors (65+)” passenger type.
- Southwest Airlines: Southwest does not offer a designated senior discount, but it has a specific "Senior Fare" that can be booked online for passengers 65 and older, though you must compare it to other low fares.
International Airline Discounts and Memberships
Some international carriers and travel organizations also offer senior-specific benefits. These can range from set dollar amount discounts to special pass programs.
- British Airways and AARP: British Airways partners with AARP to offer discounts on select flights originating from the U.S.. In the past, this has included up to $200 off business class and $65 off economy standard fares. Membership in AARP, which is open to anyone over 50, is required.
- Air France Senior Pass: This program offers discounts for travelers aged 65 and over, but eligibility can vary by country and region.
Comparison of Senior Flight Discounts
| Airline | Age Requirement | Typical Discount Amount | How to Book | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 65+ | 10-15% (base fare) | Online (Advanced Search) or Phone | More common on international routes |
| Delta Air Lines | 65+ | 5-15% (base fare) | Phone Call Only | Availability varies by market |
| United Airlines | 65+ | 5-25% (base fare) | Online (Select Senior 65+) | Varies by route, prominent on some international trips |
| Frontier Airlines | 55+ | Varies; promotional offers (e.g., 55% off) | Online (with promo code) | Promotions are temporary and have restrictions |
| Southwest Airlines | 65+ | Not specified; compare to low fares | Online (Select Senior Fare) or Phone | “Senior Fare” is the name of the fare class, not a universal discount percentage. |
| British Airways | AARP Member (50+) | $65-$200 (fixed amount) | AARP Website Booking | Offer validity and amounts can change. |
Factors Influencing Your Discount
Several factors determine the availability and extent of senior flight discounts. Flexibility is a key advantage for senior travelers seeking the best deal. Discounts are often limited during peak travel seasons, so traveling during off-peak times or mid-week can increase your chances of finding a cheaper fare.
Additionally, senior fares are not always the lowest fare available. It is crucial to compare the senior rate against other promotional or sale fares, as a standard sale price can sometimes be cheaper. Online travel agencies like Expedia may also ask for passenger age to check for potential discounts, but booking directly with the airline or through a dedicated program like the British Airways/AARP partnership is often the most reliable method. Always ask questions and be prepared to book through different channels to maximize your savings.
Conclusion
While senior citizen discounts on flights are less straightforward than they used to be, they are not a thing of the past. The percentage or fixed dollar amount varies greatly by airline and is influenced by factors like your destination, travel dates, and whether you are a member of an organization like AARP. To find the best possible price, seniors should be proactive, comparing senior-specific fares with general promotions and being flexible with travel dates. Ultimately, booking requires diligence—checking both online and by phone—to uncover the best deal for your specific travel needs.
Expert Tip
For a more structured comparison, consult a resource like DealNews' list of the best senior discounts for 2025 which includes an overview of travel-related savings, including those from major airlines.
