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The loss of a loved one is a difficult time, and the last thing anyone wants to worry about is the cost of airfare. Many airlines offer bereavement fares, which are discounted tickets for those traveling to attend a funeral or visit a terminally ill family member. But does United Airlines have bereavement fares?
United Airlines used to offer bereavement fares, but in 2019, they discontinued the program. However, United Airlines does have a flexible ticket policy that allows passengers to make changes to their travel plans without incurring a fee in certain circumstances, including the death of a family member. Let’s take a closer look at United Airlines’ policies for those facing the difficult situation of traveling for a funeral or to visit a terminally ill loved one.
Contents
- Does United Airlines Have Bereavement Fares?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What are bereavement fares?
- Does United Airlines offer bereavement fares?
- What is United Airlines’ policy for changing flights due to a death or serious illness?
- How do I request a change to my United Airlines flight due to a death or serious illness?
- Can I cancel my United Airlines flight due to a death or serious illness?
- How To Print A Boarding Pass For United Airlines?
- Are American Airline Tickets Cheaper At The Airport?
- How To Sign Up For American Airlines Frequent Flyer?
Does United Airlines Have Bereavement Fares?
Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences anyone can go through. In such a time of grief and sadness, having to worry about the cost of air travel can add further stress to an already emotionally draining situation. That’s where bereavement fares come in – special discounted fares offered by airlines to those who are travelling due to a death in the family. But does United Airlines offer bereavement fares? Let’s find out.
United Airlines and Bereavement Fares: An Overview
In the past, United Airlines did offer bereavement fares to customers who were travelling due to the death of an immediate family member. However, the airline discontinued this practice in 2014, along with several other major carriers. United Airlines cited the fact that the fares were not profitable and that they preferred to offer year-round low fares instead.
Alternative Options for United Airlines Customers
While United Airlines no longer offers bereavement fares, there are still other options available for customers who need to travel due to a family emergency. One option is to look for last-minute deals or special offers on United Airlines’ website. Another option is to consider using a travel rewards credit card to help offset the cost of airfare. Some credit cards offer rewards that can be redeemed for travel expenses, including airfare.
Benefits of Using a Travel Rewards Credit Card
Using a travel rewards credit card can offer several benefits for those who need to travel due to a family emergency. For one, it can help offset the cost of airfare, making it more affordable for those who may be on a tight budget. Additionally, some travel rewards credit cards offer perks like free checked bags or priority boarding, which can make the travel experience less stressful during a difficult time.
Comparison of Travel Rewards Credit Cards
If you’re in the market for a travel rewards credit card, it’s important to compare the options available to find one that best suits your needs. Some cards offer higher rewards rates on travel purchases, while others may offer more flexible redemption options. It’s also important to consider any annual fees or other costs associated with the card.
Other Ways to Save on Airfare
In addition to using a travel rewards credit card, there are other ways to save on airfare when travelling due to a family emergency. One option is to be flexible with travel dates – flying on a weekday or at an off-peak time can often result in lower fares. Another option is to consider alternate airports or destinations, as some may offer lower fares than others.
The Bottom Line
While United Airlines no longer offers bereavement fares, there are still options available for customers who need to travel due to a family emergency. Using a travel rewards credit card or looking for last-minute deals can help make air travel more affordable. It’s important to compare options and consider all factors when choosing a travel rewards credit card, and to be flexible with travel plans to help save on airfare.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are bereavement fares?
Bereavement fares are discounted airfares offered by airlines to passengers who are traveling due to the death or imminent death of a family member. These fares are typically offered at a lower price than regular fares and may have more flexible terms and conditions.
It is important to note that not all airlines offer bereavement fares, and the availability and terms of these fares can vary widely between airlines. Some airlines may offer bereavement fares only for immediate family members, while others may extend the offer to include extended family members or friends.
Does United Airlines offer bereavement fares?
United Airlines used to offer bereavement fares, but as of March 2020, the airline no longer offers this type of fare. United Airlines has instead implemented a more flexible policy for customers who need to change their travel plans due to a death or serious illness in the family.
Under this policy, United Airlines allows customers to make changes to their flights without incurring a change fee, provided that the changes are made within 24 hours of booking or at least 2 hours before the scheduled departure time of the original flight.
What is United Airlines’ policy for changing flights due to a death or serious illness?
United Airlines’ policy for changing flights due to a death or serious illness is designed to provide flexibility and support to customers during difficult times. Under this policy, customers can make changes to their flights without incurring a change fee if they need to travel due to the death or serious illness of a family member.
To qualify for this policy, customers must provide documentation of the death or serious illness, such as a death certificate or doctor’s note. Customers can make changes to their flights up to one year from the date of the original ticket issue, and the new travel must be completed within one year of the original ticket issue date.
How do I request a change to my United Airlines flight due to a death or serious illness?
To request a change to your United Airlines flight due to a death or serious illness, you should contact United Airlines customer service as soon as possible. You will need to provide documentation of the death or serious illness, such as a death certificate or doctor’s note, in order to qualify for a fee waiver.
United Airlines customer service representatives will work with you to find alternative flights that meet your needs, and will waive the change fee for eligible customers. It is important to note that changes made under this policy may be subject to fare differences, depending on the availability of seats on the new flights.
Can I cancel my United Airlines flight due to a death or serious illness?
Yes, you can cancel your United Airlines flight due to a death or serious illness. United Airlines’ policy for changing flights due to a death or serious illness allows customers to cancel their flights without incurring a change fee, provided that they provide documentation of the death or serious illness.
If you choose to cancel your flight, you may be eligible for a refund or a credit for future travel on United Airlines. The amount of the refund or credit will depend on the fare rules of your original ticket and the timing of your cancellation.
In conclusion, United Airlines does not offer bereavement fares at this time. However, they do offer other options that may help customers who are dealing with the loss of a loved one. These include flexible travel policies, such as the ability to change or cancel flights without fees, and discounted fares for military personnel and veterans.
While not specifically designed for bereavement situations, these options can provide some relief for those who need to make last-minute travel arrangements. It’s important to note that each situation is unique and customers should reach out to United Airlines directly for assistance and guidance on their individual circumstances.
In the end, United Airlines understands the importance of providing support to customers during difficult times. While bereavement fares may not be available, they are committed to offering compassionate and flexible options to help customers navigate challenging situations.
