Your Guide to Finding Hidden Senior Flight Discounts
Senior travelers are often eligible for special discounts on airfare, though these are rarely advertised openly. Airlines prefer to fill seats at full price, so finding these special fares often requires specific knowledge and action. By using the right online search methods, knowing when to call, and leveraging membership organizations like AARP, you can unlock significant savings.
Finding Senior Fares Through Online Booking
Many airlines integrate senior fare options directly into their websites, but you may need to dig a little to find them. Here’s how to search for senior fares online, with examples from specific carriers:
- American Airlines: While AA doesn't broadly advertise senior discounts, you can sometimes find them by using the 'Advanced Search' option. When booking, look for a 'Senior (65+)' selection in the passenger dropdown menu. Any applicable discounted fares will be displayed in the search results.
- United Airlines: For select routes, United offers senior fares for passengers aged 65 and older. To check for availability, choose 'Senior 65+' from the traveler age category on their website when searching for flights. If a senior fare is available for your specific itinerary, it will appear.
- Other Airlines: For carriers like British Airways, senior discounts are tied to membership organizations like AARP. You must book through a specific AARP link to access those savings. Always check the airline’s official website or search for partnerships with senior-focused organizations.
The Advantage of Booking Over the Phone
Many of the best senior discounts are not available through online booking systems. For certain airlines and routes, the only way to access a special senior rate is by calling the reservations line directly.
- Delta Airlines: Delta offers senior discounts in certain markets, but they are not listed on their website. You must call the reservations line at 800-221-1212 to inquire about eligibility and book a senior fare.
- Asking the Right Question: When calling, be direct. Instead of asking, "Do you offer senior discounts?" which might prompt a generic "no," try, "I would like to book a senior fare for passengers 65 and older". This phrase is more likely to trigger their system to check for specific, unadvertised rates.
Comparison: Senior Fares vs. Promotional Deals
It's a common misconception that a senior discount is always the cheapest option. Often, an airline’s promotional fare or online-only special may be lower than the senior rate, especially on highly competitive routes. Savvy travelers should compare the two side-by-side before committing. Senior fares often come with more flexible booking rules, such as being refundable or having lower change fees, which can be valuable for senior travelers.
Comparing Airline Senior Discounts
| Airline | Age Requirement | Booking Method | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 65+ | Website (Advanced Search) or Phone | Discounts on select routes, availability not guaranteed |
| United Airlines | 65+ | Website (Select 65+ passenger) | Available on select destinations |
| Delta Air Lines | 65+ | Phone Reservations Only | Availability varies by market; not online |
| British Airways | AARP Member (50+) | AARP website link only | Discounts on specific transatlantic flights |
Practical Tips for Securing a Senior Discount
To maximize your chances of finding and booking a discounted senior flight, follow these strategies:
- Book in Advance: Senior fare inventories can be limited. Booking your flight several weeks or months ahead of your travel date increases your chances of securing a discounted seat.
- Be Flexible: Adjusting your travel dates by even a day or two can unlock significant savings. Midweek flights are often cheaper than weekend travel.
- Use Membership Benefits: If you are an AARP member, be sure to check their travel center for exclusive deals. You may find discounts on airlines, hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages that stack with other senior rates.
- Confirm Eligibility: Have valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, ready when booking and checking in. Some airlines may require proof of age at the airport.
Additional Perks for Senior Travelers
Beyond financial savings, being a senior can sometimes come with other travel benefits that make the journey smoother. Many airlines and airports offer supplementary services to enhance the travel experience for older passengers:
- Priority Boarding: Many airlines offer priority boarding to senior passengers upon request, providing more time to get settled and store carry-on luggage.
- Mobility Assistance: If you need help navigating the airport, you can request wheelchair or electric cart assistance. Make these arrangements in advance when booking your ticket or by calling the airline.
- Better Seating: In some cases, mentioning your age during booking or at check-in might help you get a more comfortable seat with better legroom or an aisle seat for easy access.
- Flexible Policies: Some senior fares are less restrictive than standard tickets, which can mean more flexibility if your travel plans change. For example, some may offer no-fee changes or refunds for cancellations.
Conclusion
While the days of widely-publicized senior discounts may be over, the deals are still out there for those who know where to look. By checking an airline's website, making a strategic phone call, and comparing senior-specific fares with other promotional offers, you can ensure you're getting the best value for your trip. Remember to leverage memberships like AARP and take advantage of extra perks like mobility assistance to make your travel experience more comfortable and enjoyable. For general health information on traveling as a senior, consult reputable sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention before your journey.
Note: Airline policies change frequently. It is always best to verify current discounts and booking procedures with the airline directly at the time of your reservation.
