Losing a loved one is a difficult and emotional experience. In such a time of grief, the last thing anyone wants to worry about is the cost of airfare to attend a funeral or be with family. That’s why many airlines offer bereavement fares, special discounts for those traveling due to a death in the family. But what about United Airlines? Do they offer bereavement discounts? Let’s find out.
United Airlines has long been a popular choice for travelers, offering a wide range of destinations and competitive pricing. But when it comes to bereavement fares, the airline has taken a different approach than many of its competitors. In this article, we’ll explore United Airlines’ policy on bereavement discounts and what options are available for those traveling due to the loss of a loved one.
Contents
- United Airlines Bereavement Discounts
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are bereavement discounts?
- Why did United Airlines stop offering bereavement discounts?
- Are there any other airlines that offer bereavement discounts?
- What other options are available for reducing the cost of airfare during a bereavement?
- How can I find the best fares for my trip?
- Which airline offers the best bereavement fare?
- How Many Bags American Airlines?
- How To Fly Standby On American Airlines?
- Why Does My American Airlines Ticket Say Pending?
United Airlines Bereavement Discounts
Dealing with the loss of a loved one can be an emotionally and financially overwhelming experience. For those who need to travel to attend a funeral or visit a sick relative, the cost of airfare can add to the stress of the situation. Many airlines offer bereavement discounts to help alleviate some of the financial burden during this difficult time. In this article, we will explore whether United Airlines offers bereavement discounts.
What are Bereavement Discounts?
Bereavement fares are discounted airfares offered by airlines to customers who are traveling due to a family member’s death or imminent death. These fares are usually lower than regular fares and are meant to ease the financial burden on travelers who need to make last-minute arrangements to attend a funeral or visit a sick relative.
Does United Airlines Offer Bereavement Discounts?
Unfortunately, United Airlines no longer offers bereavement discounts. In March 2014, United Airlines joined many other major airlines in ending their bereavement fare policies. The company cited the need to simplify their fare structure as the reason for discontinuing bereavement discounts.
Alternatives to Bereavement Discounts
While United Airlines no longer offers bereavement discounts, there are still ways to save on airfare during a difficult time. Here are some alternatives to consider:
1. Look for Last-Minute Deals
If you have some flexibility in your travel dates, you may be able to find last-minute deals on airfare. Websites like Expedia and Kayak offer last-minute flight deals that can help you save money on your trip.
2. Use Frequent Flyer Miles
If you are a frequent flyer, you may have accumulated enough miles to cover the cost of your flight. Check with United Airlines to see if you have enough miles to redeem for a free or discounted flight.
3. Book Early
Booking your flight as early as possible can often help you save money on airfare. While this may not be possible in a situation where you need to travel last minute, it’s worth considering if you have some advance notice.
Benefits of Bereavement Discounts
While United Airlines no longer offers bereavement discounts, other airlines still do. Benefits of bereavement discounts may include:
1. Lower Cost
Bereavement fares are typically lower than regular fares, which can help ease the financial burden of last-minute travel.
2. Flexibility
Bereavement fares often come with more flexible terms than regular fares. This can be helpful if you need to change your travel plans at the last minute.
3. Priority Seating
Some airlines offer priority seating for customers traveling on bereavement fares. This can be helpful if you need to get to your destination quickly or if you have special needs.
Conclusion
While United Airlines no longer offers bereavement discounts, there are still ways to save on airfare when traveling for a family member’s death or imminent death. Consider looking for last-minute deals, using frequent flyer miles, or booking your flight early. If you do need to travel on short notice, be sure to compare the cost of bereavement fares on other airlines to regular fares on United Airlines to ensure you are getting the best deal possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about bereavement discounts offered by United Airlines.
What are bereavement discounts?
Bereavement discounts are offered by airlines to customers who need to fly due to the death or imminent death of a family member. These discounts can help reduce the cost of airfare during a difficult time.
United Airlines used to offer bereavement discounts, but they have since discontinued this program.
Why did United Airlines stop offering bereavement discounts?
United Airlines stopped offering bereavement discounts in 2014, citing the availability of lower fares and the flexibility of their fare options as reasons for the change. They also noted that the discounts were only available for select routes and could be difficult to obtain.
Instead of offering bereavement discounts, United Airlines now provides a flexible fare option called the “United Flexible Fare,” which allows customers to make changes to their flights without incurring additional fees.
Are there any other airlines that offer bereavement discounts?
Yes, there are still some airlines that offer bereavement discounts. These include Delta Air Lines, Air Canada, and WestJet. However, it’s important to note that these discounts may only be available for select routes and may require documentation to prove the customer’s need for the discount.
If you’re looking for a bereavement discount, it’s a good idea to check with multiple airlines to see what options are available.
What other options are available for reducing the cost of airfare during a bereavement?
In addition to bereavement discounts, there are other ways to reduce the cost of airfare during a difficult time. Some airlines offer discounted last-minute fares, which can be helpful if you need to book a flight quickly. It’s also a good idea to compare fares across multiple airlines and to be flexible with your travel dates and times.
If you’re a frequent traveler, you may also want to consider signing up for an airline rewards program, which can help you earn points or miles that can be used towards future flights.
How can I find the best fares for my trip?
To find the best fares for your trip, it’s a good idea to compare prices across multiple airlines. You can use online travel booking websites, such as Expedia or Kayak, to compare fares and find the best deals. It’s also a good idea to be flexible with your travel dates and times, as flights can be more expensive during peak travel times.
If you’re a frequent traveler, consider signing up for an airline rewards program, which can help you earn points or miles that can be used towards future flights.
Which airline offers the best bereavement fare?
In conclusion, United Airlines does not offer bereavement discounts. While this may come as a disappointment to some, there are still options available to help ease the burden of travel during a difficult time. It’s important to consider alternative airlines that may offer discounts or consider booking flights in advance to secure the best possible price. Additionally, many airlines offer flexible cancellation policies, which can provide peace of mind in case unexpected circumstances arise. We hope this information has been helpful and wish you the best during this difficult period.