Navigating Senior Citizen Flight Discounts
Many airlines offer reduced fares for senior citizens, though these discounts are often not as widely advertised as promotional fares. The key to securing these savings lies in knowing which airlines participate, understanding their age requirements, and knowing how to book. By doing a little research and following the correct steps, you can save a significant amount on your next trip.
Where to Find Senior Discounts
Unlike general promotional sales that appear prominently on airline websites, senior discounts can be harder to find. Standard search results will often prioritize the lowest available fare, which may or may not be the senior rate. To find the discounts, you must use a more direct approach.
- Airline Websites: Some airlines, like United and American Airlines, have a specific option in their advanced search feature to select "Senior 65+" or a similar category. This will show you applicable fares, if available, during your search.
- Phone Reservations: For many major carriers, the most reliable method is to call their reservation line and ask the agent about senior citizen discounts. Delta is a prime example of an airline that has traditionally not offered these deals online, requiring a phone call to check eligibility and book.
- Affiliate Programs: Airlines may partner with organizations like AARP to offer exclusive discounts. For instance, British Airways provides special deals for AARP members, which can be booked through a dedicated AARP travel portal.
How to Book Your Senior Discounted Flight
The booking process will depend on the airline's policy. Always verify your eligibility and the terms of the discount before purchasing.
- Check the Age Requirement: Most US carriers set the age for senior discounts at 65+, while some international airlines may start at 60 or even 55. Confirm the specific age with the airline you plan to use.
- Gather Necessary Documents: Be prepared to provide proof of age, such as a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport), at the time of booking or check-in.
- Book Directly: Use the airline's official website or phone reservation line. Third-party travel sites rarely display these specific fares, so booking directly is crucial.
- Compare Fares: Before completing your booking, compare the senior fare with the standard promotional fare. Sometimes, a regular sale can be a better deal, depending on the route and travel dates. You can use a travel comparison tool like Skyscanner to assist with this research.
Major Airline Senior Discount Policies
Here is a general overview of how some major airlines handle senior fares. Policies can change frequently, so always confirm with the airline before booking.
United Airlines
- Age: 65+.
- How to Book: Select "Senior 65+" from the traveler drop-down menu on the website. Available for select destinations.
American Airlines
- Age: 65+.
- How to Book: Use the advanced search option on their website to choose "Senior (65+)" or call the reservations line.
Delta Airlines
- Age: 65+.
- How to Book: Senior discounts are not available on delta.com. Travelers must call the reservation line to inquire about eligibility and booking.
British Airways (via AARP)
- Age: AARP membership required (ages 18+ can join).
- How to Book: Must book online through the dedicated AARP portal to access discounts on certain transatlantic flights.
Southwest Airlines
- Age: 65+ is often mentioned, but policies are inconsistent.
- How to Book: Southwest has stated they do not offer senior fares on their website, yet many sources recommend calling the reservation line (1-800-435-9792) to inquire about potential unadvertised deals.
Comparison of Senior Discount Options
| Airline | Typical Age | Booking Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Airlines | 65+ | Online via website advanced search | Applies to select routes and destinations. |
| American Airlines | 65+ | Online via website advanced search or phone | Varies by route and may not be the best available fare. |
| Delta Airlines | 65+ | Phone reservations ONLY | Discounts are unadvertised and depend on availability. |
| British Airways | AARP member (18+) | Book through AARP portal | Exclusive deals for AARP members on select flights. |
| Frontier Airlines | 55+ (promos) | Online with promo code | Occasional, limited-time promotions with specific booking and travel date restrictions. |
Tips for Maximizing Savings
Beyond using senior discounts, there are several other strategies to ensure you get the best deal on your flight.
- Book Early: Prices are often lower when booking well in advance. Senior discounts can also be limited, so booking early increases your chances of securing a lower rate.
- Travel Off-Peak: Flying during less popular times of the year, like midweek or during the off-season, can lead to significant savings.
- Be Flexible: Consider different travel dates and even alternative, nearby airports to compare prices. Flexibility is one of the best ways to find lower fares.
- Beware of Restrictions: Senior fares can sometimes have different rules regarding cancellations, changes, and baggage compared to standard tickets. Always read the fine print.
Conclusion
While finding senior citizen discounts on flight bookings requires more effort than a typical online search, the potential savings make it a worthwhile endeavor. The key is to understand that these offers are not always visible through conventional methods. By checking directly with airlines, utilizing special search options online, and exploring affiliate partnerships, senior travelers can unlock valuable reduced fares and make their next trip more affordable. Comparing the senior rate against standard promotional fares will ensure you always get the best deal for your travel plans.
For more detailed information on maximizing your travel budget, consider exploring resources like the National Institute on Aging to keep your mind stimulated.
