When we first wrote about bereavement fares nearly 20 years ago, in 2006, 2008 and 2010, they were already quickly becoming a thing of the past.  Even when they existed broadly, they never represented much value. Today, they are a vestige of air travel past, only slightly more common than on board lounges.  Even back then, we well remember being told by a call center agent “I am so sorry to learn of the demise of your relation.”

Of major domestic airlines, only Delta and Alaska offer these fares. Even then, they require jumping through hoops for discounts that may be insignificant or even represent no savings over widely-available fares. If you need to get to a funeral fast your best bet is not to waste time chasing non-existent bereavement fares or discounts. Just find the cheapest fare you can and go on your way.

Delta Airlines Bereavement Fares

Delta is one of the few airlines that still offers bereavement fares. Information about Delta Bereavement Flights.

Alaska Airlines Bereavement Fares

Alaska also has a page devoted to its bereavement fares.

Bereavement fares

We’re so sorry for your loss, and want to help lessen your burden however we can.  In that spirit, we offer a discount for bereavement travel to make it easier for you to be with your loved ones during this difficult time.

How does the bereavement fare work?

If you need to travel within the next 7 days due to the death of one of your immediate family members, you may be eligible for a 10% discount off the lowest available fare for your desired flights. This reduced rate is only available when purchasing your ticket by phone. Please read below for eligibility.

Call us to receive this reduced rate fare:

• • Reservations and customer service:

1-800-252-7522

• • Hearing and speech impaired (TTY): Dial 711 for relay services
    Accessible services:

1-800-503-0101

Who is considered immediate family?

We consider these relatives immediate family members:

• A spouse or domestic partner
• A child or stepchild
• A parent (mother, father, stepmother, or stepfather)
• Siblings (brother, sister, half-brother, half-sister, stepbrother, or stepsister)
• Grandparents (grandmother, grandfather, step grandparent, or great grandparent)
• A grandchild (granddaughter, grandson, step grandchild, or great grandchild)
• An aunt or uncle
• A niece or nephew
• In-laws (mother-in-law, father-in-law, daughter-in-law, son-in-law, brother-in-law, or sister-in-law)

Note: This reduced rate does not apply to cousins or other in-law relatives.

What other rules apply to this bereavement fare?

You are eligible for the reduced rate fare if you are traveling due to the death of an immediate family member; this reduced rate isn’t intended for medical or emergency travel.

Here are a few more details that apply:

• The discount is valid on Alaska Airlines and flights operated on behalf of Alaska by Horizon or SkyWest.
• Travel must begin within seven days of purchasing your ticket.
• Guests over the age of 18 must be Mileage Plan members, and have their Mileage Plan numbers added to their reservation.
  Not a Mileage Plan member yet? It’s free to join.
• This fare discount only applies to new tickets purchased by contacting our call center.
• All rules associated with the fare are applicable, including Saver fare restrictions.
• All fees associated with the fare are applicable.
• This fare discount cannot be combined with any other promotional discounts (such as Money & Miles, companion fares, government fares or military fares).
• The discount cannot be offered after travel has begun.