Saving on Seniority

Written by Smith Jones    Tuesday, 19 February 2008

When it comes to discounts, mature travelers are the current darlings of U.S. airlines now have two programs aimed exclusively at senior discount, or books of flight coupons valid for a one-way coach trip within the United States. As the accompanying chart shows, the minimum age varies from 60 to 65 (price subject to change). If you’re 50 or older, join the American Association of Retired Persons; you and your spouse receive 10 percent off American’s lowest fares. And most airlines allow a companion of any age to enjoy the senior discount. Which deal is the best depends on where and how often you expect to travel. Long hauls: When planning two or more long domestic round-trips, consider buying coupons. Alaska, Continental, Delta, Eastern, Northwest, TWA, and USAir coupons cover a one-way trip of any length in the lower 48 states. American and United have 2,000-mile limits, so you need two coupons to fly coast to coast. America West requires two coupons for certain city destinations. (All airlines require two coupons for each one-way flight to Hawaii or Alaska.) Short or infrequent trips: For this type of travel, you’re probably better off with the 10-percent discount. Beyond the United States: You can use some coupons for flights to the Caribbean and the Bahamas; the discount is valid for many over-seas flights. Frequent travel: Buy Continental’s Freedom Passport. For $1,599 ($2,499 first class), a person 62 or older can take a one-way coach trip every week for a year anywhere Continental flies in the lower 48 states. You can buy a second pass for a companion of any age. The Global option ($2,999 coach, $4,999 first class) adds Europe, Hawaii, Central America, Mexico, the Caribbean, and the South Pacific. Keep in mind that discounts may not be available during peak travel periods, and seats may be limited. Various restrictions may also apply.

Last Updated ( Saturday, 23 February 2008 )