When tragedy strikes and you need to travel due to the death or imminent death of a family member, you may be wondering if United Airlines offers bereavement discounts. In the past, United Airlines had a policy that provided discounted fares for passengers in such situations. But is this still the case?
Today, United Airlines offers a 5% discount on the ticket price for bereavement situations. However, there are some important things to note. The discount is only valid if all flights are on United Airlines metal, meaning operated by United Airlines itself. Additionally, all original ticketing rules, including change fees, still apply. This change in policy has diminished the value of bereavement fares for travelers, as last-minute fares have generally decreased, and other options may offer better prices, especially with the rise of low-cost airlines and cheaper airfares overall.
So, if you’re looking for bereavement discounts, is United Airlines still your best option? Let’s explore other airlines’ bereavement fare policies to see what alternatives are available.
Key Takeaways:
- United Airlines currently offers a 5% discount on ticket prices for bereavement situations, but only if all flights are on United Airlines metal.
- Last-minute fares have generally decreased, making bereavement fares less valuable.
- Other airlines like Delta Air Lines, Alaska Airlines, Lufthansa, Air Canada, and WestJet still have more comprehensive bereavement fare policies in place.
- It’s important to compare prices and policies of different airlines to find the best option in times of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.
- Considering other options may provide better prices, especially with the availability of lower-priced fares from low-cost carriers.
Other Airlines’ Bereavement Fare Policies
While United Airlines currently offers a limited bereavement discount, there are other airlines that still have comprehensive bereavement fare policies in place. If you’re in need of compassionate airfare options during difficult times, consider the policies of the following airlines:
Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines offers bereavement fares under certain circumstances. To avail these discounted fares, you’ll need to book your ticket over the phone. Delta provides support for customers during times of loss, allowing them to travel to be with their loved ones or attend funerals. Keep in mind that Delta’s bereavement fares require telephone booking to verify eligibility.
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines understands the emotional toll of losing a loved one and offers a 10% discount on airfares to customers who experience the loss of an immediate family member. To take advantage of this compassionate offering, you’ll need to call Alaska Airlines directly to book your ticket. They’re dedicated to providing support and understanding during challenging times.
Lufthansa
When the journey starts in the USA or Canada, Lufthansa offers special fares for immediate family members attending funerals. These special fares apply to both outbound and return flights, allowing you to be present with your loved ones during these difficult moments. Contact Lufthansa directly for more information and to book your fare.
Air Canada
Air Canada recognizes the need for compassionate travel and provides bereavement fares for passengers who are traveling due to the death or imminent death of an immediate family member. If you find yourself in this situation, contact Air Canada to book your bereavement fare and receive support during these challenging times.
WestJet
WestJet offers discounted bereavement rates for immediate family members, allowing you to travel in times of loss. They advise passengers to check for lower prices on their website before booking a bereavement fare to ensure you’re getting the best available rate during your difficult journey. Reach out to WestJet directly to discuss your specific requirements and avail their compassionate fare offerings.
Note: It is important to keep in mind that each airline may have specific terms and conditions, eligibility criteria, and required documentation for bereavement fares. It is advisable to contact the respective airlines’ customer service or visit their official websites for the most up-to-date information and to understand the complete details of their bereavement fare policies.
| Airline | Bereavement Fare Policy | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|
| Delta Air Lines | Bereavement fares available under certain circumstances. Phone booking required. | Contact Delta Air Lines for more details. |
| Alaska Airlines | 10% discount for immediate family members. Booking through phone required. | Contact Alaska Airlines for more details. |
| Lufthansa | Special fares for outbound and return flights for immediate family members attending a funeral when the journey starts in the USA or Canada. | Contact Lufthansa for more details. |
| Air Canada | Bereavement fares available for the death or imminent death of an immediate family member. | Contact Air Canada for more details. |
| WestJet | Discounted bereavement rates available for immediate family members. | Contact WestJet for more details. |
Conclusion
While United Airlines has scaled back its bereavement fare policy to only offer a 5% discount, other airlines still provide more comprehensive bereavement fare options. It is important for travelers to consider all available options, as the discounted fares may not always be the best deal, especially with the availability of lower-priced fares from low-cost carriers. It is advisable to compare prices and policies of different airlines, particularly in times of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances such as the death or imminent death of a family member.
FAQ
Q: Does United Airlines offer bereavement discounts?
A: Yes, United Airlines used to offer bereavement fares, which provided discounted rates for passengers traveling due to the death or imminent death of a family member. However, as of now, United Airlines only offers a 5% discount on the ticket price for bereavement situations. All original ticketing rules, including change fees, still apply. The 5% discount is only valid if all flights are on United Airlines metal.
Q: Are there any other airlines that offer bereavement fares?
A: Yes, several other airlines still have bereavement fare policies in place. Delta Air Lines offers bereavement fares under certain circumstances and requires passengers to book over the phone. Alaska Airlines provides a 10% discount to customers whose immediate family members have passed away, with bookings also made over the phone. Lufthansa offers special fares for outbound and return flights for immediate family members attending a funeral when the journey starts in the USA or Canada. Air Canada offers bereavement fares for travel due to the death or imminent death of an immediate family member, and WestJet provides discounted bereavement rates for immediate family members but advises passengers to check for lower prices on their website before booking a bereavement fare.
Q: How does United Airlines’ current bereavement discount compare to other airlines’ policies?
A: While United Airlines currently offers a limited bereavement discount, other airlines still provide more comprehensive bereavement fare options. It is important for travelers to consider all available options, as the discounted fares may not always be the best deal, especially with the availability of lower-priced fares from low-cost carriers. It is advisable to compare prices and policies of different airlines, particularly in times of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances such as the death or imminent death of a family member.