Airline Discounts for Seniors
By Joe Volz
Due to September 11, gas prices and possibly because there are just so many of us seniors these days, senior discount airline fares and clubs have declined or disappeared altogether in recent years. But the skies can still be friendly to seniors--you just have to know where to look.
We've gathered what information we could below on senior discounts among the major carriers. Be advised, however, that these programs are in constant change. Also, some fares can be booked online, others require you to call, and others aren't posted at all and require you to call and ask for them. Also be aware that there may in fact be other discounts even lower than the going senior rate, so ask about those as well.
AARP Passport powered by Travelocity
A way to see how all the carriers compare is AARP Passport. AARP teams with Travelocity to offer its members discounted prices on airfare, as well as on cruises and other means of transportation. AARP Passport is a free service open to members only.
When you use this service you will get the prices negotiated by the organization with various airlines, as well as periodic special sales. AARP also offers an online travel newsletter to keep members posted of the latest travel opportunities.
- www.aarp.org/passport; 888-291-1757
United Airlines
United's two special programs for seniors, Silver Wings Plus and Silver Wings Preferred are being phased out throughout 2007. Some perks are still being honored. Call 800-720-1765 for more information.
- www.silverwingsplus.com; 800-720-1765
American Airlines
A spokesman at American Airlines says that some discounts are available for seniors 65 over, but there is no standard rule for when or where they will appear. Generally, company policy is to offer discounts on selected routes only some of the time. The discounts can vary as there is no specific percentage off for older people.
The senior discounts are not available online so you need to book your trip by phone. Ask the agent what discounts are available for seniors. Also ask if the airline is running any other discount that is less expensive than the senior rate.
- www.aa.com; 800-433-7300
Continental Airlines
Continental offers senior fares to selected travel destinations for passengers 65 or older. But the website suggests that when you call for a reservation, it’s best to ask if any other discount is lower than the senior offer. To reserve online, input your travel requests and select the “senior” category (age 65 or older).
- www.continental.com; 800-525-0280
Delta
Neither Delta nor Delta Shuttle offers any senior discounts or programs at this time.
Northwest Airlines
Northwest offers senior discount fares in select markets. Identify yourself as a senior when proceeding through the booking process on www.nwa.com.- www.nwa.com; 800-225-2525
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines has special fares for travelers 65 and older between specified cities. The ticket is fully refundable should your plans change. The senior discounts are available during holiday periods, too, but are limited, so anyone traveling at these times needs to book a ticket as far in advance as possible. Seniors must show a photo identification before boarding to receive the discounts.
To obtain a boarding pass online, you need to have your age verified in advance by mailing a copy of your driver’s license or other government-issued photo identification that indicates your birth date to the airline 21 days in advance. Southwest Airlines Customer Relations; Box 36662, Dallas, TX, 75235.
- www.southwest.com; 800-692-3788
US Airways/America West Airlines
Following a merger, US Airways and America West established its current policy for senior discounts. Although there is no overall percentage discount for seniors, a senior discount is available in some markets on occasion. The discount will be applied automatically to the displayed fare price when you make a reservation if you indicate you are 65 or older.
The Senior Saver Pack, a program discontinued by US Airways on Sept. 9, 2006, will be honored up to a year after the purchase date.
- www.usairways.com, www.americawest.com; 800-235-9292, 800-428-4322
Books
Find these books online at Barnesandnoble.com
Unbelievably Good Deals and Great Adventures that You Absolutely Can’t Get Unless You’re Over 50
By Joan Rattner Heilman, 2007-2008 edition.
Get up and Get out!: The Geezer's Guide to Living Your Dreams on the Road
By John Tartaglia, 2006.
