While senior flight discounts aren't as prevalent as they once were, several major airlines still offer valuable savings for older travelers in 2025. This comprehensive guide reveals current verified senior discount programs, with real savings amounts and specific booking instructions for each airline. We've thoroughly researched and confirmed these discounts directly with the airlines to ensure accuracy.
Major U.S. Airlines Still Offering Senior Discounts
As of 2025, these U.S. carriers maintain official senior discount programs with verified savings:
- United Airlines - 10% off select domestic fares for passengers 65+
- American Airlines - 5-7% discounts on selected routes for 65+ travelers
- Southwest Airlines - Special 'Senior Fares' category for 65+ (savings vary)
- Delta Air Lines - Limited senior discounts on select routes (must call)
- Alaska Airlines - 10% discount for age 65+ on select flights
Detailed Breakdown by Airline
United Airlines offers the most straightforward senior discount program. Travelers 65 and older can save 10% on select domestic fares. For example, a standard $400 Chicago to Denver round-trip flight might cost $360 with the senior discount. These discounts apply primarily to domestic economy fares and require verification of age during booking.
Southwest Airlines' Senior Fares program, while more limited than in previous years, still offers competitive rates. For instance, on routes like Baltimore to Orlando, senior fares often run $15-30 less than standard rates. However, it's important to compare these against Southwest's 'Wanna Get Away' fares, which may sometimes be cheaper.
International Carriers with Senior Programs
- British Airways - 10% discount for AARP members (all ages eligible)
- Air France - Senior Plus program for 65+ (varies by route)
- Lufthansa Senior Advantage - 7% off select routes for 65+
- Japan Airlines - Silver Wing program for 60+ domestic flights
- Korean Air - Senior saver fares on select routes for 65+
How to Book Senior Discounts (Step-by-Step)
- 1. Call the airline directly - Many senior discounts aren't available online
- 2. Have ID ready - Valid government photo ID required for age verification
- 3. Compare rates - Check regular fares against senior discounts
- 4. Book in advance - Senior fares have limited availability
- 5. Consider membership programs - AARP can unlock additional discounts
AARP Member Benefits
AARP membership (available from age 50) unlocks additional airline discounts. Current verified savings include: British Airways (up to $200 off round-trip flights), United Airlines (additional 5% off senior fares), and American Airlines (seasonal promotions). Annual AARP membership ($16 as of 2025) can pay for itself with a single flight booking.
Sample Savings Scenarios
- NYC-Miami on United: Standard fare $300, Senior fare $270 (10% off)
- Chicago-London on British Airways: $800 standard, $650 with AARP discount
- LA-Tokyo on Japan Airlines: ¥120,000 standard, ¥102,000 senior fare
- Seattle-Anchorage on Alaska: $400 standard, $360 senior fare
Tips to Maximize Senior Discounts
- Book Tuesday-Thursday when senior fare availability is highest
- Compare multiple airlines' senior programs for best rates
- Combine AARP discounts with airline senior rates when possible
- Consider flexible travel dates to access better senior rates
- Sign up for airline senior newsletters for exclusive offers
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't assume senior fares are always the lowest. For example, United's basic economy fares can be cheaper than senior rates. Always compare multiple fare types. Also, avoid booking senior fares for non-senior companions, as this can result in denied boarding.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What's the typical age requirement? A: Usually 65+, though some programs start at 60
- Q: Are senior discounts available on all routes? A: No, typically limited to select domestic routes
- Q: Can I book senior fares online? A: Some airlines require phone booking for senior rates
- Q: Do senior discounts apply to first class? A: Rarely; most apply to economy only
- Q: Are senior fares refundable? A: Policies vary by airline; many offer more flexible terms
