If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of needing to book immediate airfare due to a death or serious illness of a family member, you would hope to be able to find discounted airfare to accommodate this occurrence. Unfortunately, in many cases, bereavement fares are hard to come by and very exclusive as to who is eligible. It is understandable that airlines would take measures to ensure this system is not abused, however the administrative chore of providing proof of death or hospitalization is the last thing on your mind in such an event. Though we wish this on no one, if you are in need of bereavement fare, here is a list of policies for a few of the more generous airlines.
- Continental Airlines: A pretty extensive list of eligible family members ranges from immediate family to foster and step families. The discount varies based on the cost of the flight, with the cheapest flights receiving a 5 discount and the most expensive receiving a 20 discount. Proof of death or hospitalization is required.
- American Airlines: In order to receive information on their emergency and bereavement fares you have to call 1-800-433-7300, a number found on their website.
- Delta: Tickets cannot be purchased online but they do include the death or imminent death of immediate family. You are required to provide the number of a funeral home, hospital, hospice, or doctor and tickets must be purchased within a set period of the death or imminent death.
While this list does not cover every bereavement plan, they are becoming more and more scarce. Many airlines have completely done away with these policies, making travel in unpredictable circumstances very difficult. When you book tickets of this nature, be sure to read the fine print because different airlines have varied policies regarding flight changes and upgrades.