Airlines that offer bereavement fares: How to get the discount
Discounted Bereavement Fares: Airlines Extend Compassionate Offers
In the emotionally charged aftermath of losing a loved one, making travel arrangements can be an added strain. For those who must travel unexpectedly due to a family member’s passing, several airlines, including Delta and Hawaiian, extend a compassionate gesture in the form of discounted bereavement fares. These special fares come with various policies and can provide significant savings for those dealing with the loss.
Bereavement fares, or the compassionate airfares, are discounted rates offered by airlines to relatives who must travel due to a family death. While these fares have declined in popularity over the years with the rise of low-cost airlines and online travel agencies, some airlines continue to offer them, aiming to ease the financial burden of last-minute travel.
How to Access Bereavement Fares
Obtaining a bereavement fare requires more than just booking a ticket online. As these fares are often not publicly advertised, passengers will need to directly contact the airline’s customer service to inquire about availability and eligibility. The process may involve proving the relationship to the deceased and providing details about the death, such as the date and location. It’s also worth noting that these special fares are usually flexible, allowing changes in return dates without imposing the usual hefty fees. 
For instance, Delta Air Lines offers bereavement fares for immediate family members, which includes spouses, children, parents, siblings, grandparents, grandchildren, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and in-laws. Travelers must be enrolled in Delta’s SkyMiles program, and tickets must be purchased by phone. The airline does not specify the amount of the discount, as it varies based on the itinerary.
Airlines Offering Bereavement Fares
Alongside Delta, Hawaiian Airlines also offers bereavement fares. These are available to immediate family members, including spouses, children, parents, and siblings. Hawaiian provides a flexible travel policy, allowing you to change your return date without any extra cost.
Other airlines offering bereavement fares include Air Canada, WestJet, and Lufthansa. Air Canada’s bereavement fares are available for both domestic and international flights, while WestJet offers them for flights within Canada and to the U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, and Europe. Lufthansa provides them for flights departing from the U.S.
It’s crucial to note that not all airlines offer bereavement fares, and those that do may not necessarily provide the best deal. When dealing with the loss of a loved one, it’s worth taking the time to compare prices, as traditional discounted fares or last-minute deals may sometimes offer a better rate.
While bereavement fares may offer financial relief for those dealing with the loss of a family member, it’s vital to understand the policies and procedures attached to these discounted rates. Travelers should ensure they fully comprehend the terms and conditions before booking, to avoid any potential complications during this already stressful time.
