Berevement Fares on airlines?

Question

My husband's sister passed away this morning and I was wondering how these fares work? We called United and the fare was 778 where online a normal fare was 338. They said it was because the berevement fare is fully refundable. Just wondering if any other airlines offer better deals? Thanks!

Answer 1

Bereavement fares are hardly ever a good bargain. The airlines give you a discount off of the last-minute fare which is sky-high to begin with. You'll be better off either cashing in airline miles (if you have them) to get a free ticket, or using one of the travel sites like priceline or hotwire. In general, last minute travel is really expensive, so your options might not be all that great.

Check into JetBlue--- unlike other airlines, they don't usually have multiple price levels, just one flat fare no matter when you purchase your ticket. You might have to do some driving because they don't service all cities but if you can get close, you could save a ton of money.

Answer 2

Delta does not offer berevement fares anymore when they came up with the Simplifares scheme.

I used one and they can be a good deal, but you need to look and compare what is offered on other travel sites and find the right deal for you.

One advantage of a berevement fare is the lack of change fees, but if the ticket is more than $100 less than the berevement fare, you can simply pay the change fee on your way back.

Answer 3

Unfortunately most airlines work by the same rules as United. For a complete description of berevement fares, including different types, see attached link.

Answer 4

United must think their seats are made of gold. But, bereavement fares are usually not much better (if at all) than regular fares. The best thing you can do is get on Orbitz or other ticket site & try to find a last minute ticket(s) at a better rate. Your alternative would be to call the other airlines to check their rates.

Answer 5

Bereavement specials are a joke! They may give you a $20 discount. I worked in a funeral home for 8 years and told people to just look on the internet, it's probably cheaper. Had one family tell me bereavement fare was actually higher. Good luck!

Answer 6

Southwest Airlines used to provide this service and I am not sure if they currently do.
If they still do, they will work with you if you explain the situation. The only thing is - You will have to provide proof that someone is deceased. That is not meant as an insult, just assurance that the benevolence is not abused.
Call them and talk to one of the reservation people to see if they go to and from your origination and destination and whether or not they provide this service.
I am sorry for your loss.