Everyone loves to save money, and it's no surprise that many seniors are eager to find out if they can get discounts on airline tickets.
Keep reading to discover which airlines offer senior discounts and how much you could potentially save. You'll also find helpful tips on booking your flights and making the most of your travel experience.
Are There Senior Discounts on Airfare?
Yes, many airlines offer discounts for seniors when booking flights. To secure the best deal, it's crucial to know which airlines provide these discounts and how to book a senior fare. Generally, you need to be at least 50 years old to qualify, though the age requirement can vary by airline.
Some discounts are only available if you purchase your tickets in advance, while others may still apply even if you buy tickets on the day of travel. Always check with your chosen airline to understand their specific eligibility requirements for senior discounts.
How to Get a Senior Discount on Flights
It’s important to do your research and compare prices. You can use online travel websites like Expedia or Orbitz to find the best deals on airfare. Then you can call the airline directly to learn about senior discounts.
When booking your flight, be sure to inform the airline that you are a senior citizen, as you might need to provide proof of age, like a driver’s license or passport.
Here are some additional tips to consider:
- Sign Up for Airline Deals: Subscribing to airline newsletters will keep you informed about the latest discounts available for seniors.
- Keep Your Travel Schedule Flexible: Flight costs vary depending on the day and time. For example, traveling on a Wednesday morning is often cheaper than flying on a Friday evening, so adjusting your schedule can help you save money.
- Understand Additional Charges: Be aware of potential fluctuations in flight prices and additional fees that could increase your overall cost.
- Book Early: Senior discounts are often limited, so booking your flight early can secure better rates. Subscribing to newsletters can also alert you to early booking opportunities.
How to Book Senior Discounts
Airlines often provide senior discounts for travelers, typically starting at age 50, though the age requirement can vary by airline. To access these discounts, you’ll need to book directly through the airline’s website or call center and provide your date of birth along with proof of age, such as an ID or passport. Senior discounts usually range from 5% to 10% off the regular fare, but exact rates and policies differ by airline.
Some airlines require seniors to purchase tickets at least seven days in advance to qualify for the discount, while others may limit discounts to domestic flights only. Availability can also be restricted during peak travel seasons, such as holidays and summer months.
To ensure you’re getting the best deal, research and compare different airlines' senior discount policies before booking.
Not all airlines offer a senior discount on flights. However, there are still some that do. Here is a list of airlines you should consider if you want to get senior flight discounts.
American Airlines
American Airlines offer a senior discount on flights for certain international flights to those aged 65 years or above. To access the offer, you need to log into the American Airlines website, select the ‘Advanced/Multi-city search,’ and in the age section, choose 65+.
British Airways
British Airways offers up to $200 off air travel to AARP members. So if you are aged 50 years or above, you can sign up to be an AARP member and enjoy the perks that come with this membership. You can get this discount only if you book your flight through the AARP website.
Delta Airlines
Delta Airlines offers senior discounts on specific markets. On top of that, they also offer cheap and discounted military tickets. These offers are available to both serving and retired military officers. However, their discounts are not available online. So, to get the discount, you have to contact the airline directly by phone.
United Airlines
United Airlines offers flight discounts to seniors aged 65 and older, as stated in the senior traveler section of their official website. To redeem this discount, you can inquire about senior fare offers when making a reservation. If booking online at United.com, select the “age 65 and older” category during the booking process. Keep in mind that the discount applies only to select destinations.
