What To Know
- A bereavement fare is a discounted airfare offered by airlines to individuals who need to travel due to the death of a close family member or loved one.
- You must provide proof of the death of a close family member or loved one, such as a death certificate or obituary.
- Yes, you can book a bereavement fare for a family member or loved one who needs to travel.
In the face of a loved one’s passing, the burden of travel expenses can add to the emotional turmoil. Many airlines offer bereavement fares to alleviate this burden, but does United Airlines extend this compassionate service? This blog post will delve into the details of United Airlines’ bereavement fare policy, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of its availability, eligibility, and procedures.
Understanding Bereavement Fares
A bereavement fare is a discounted airfare offered by airlines to individuals who need to travel due to the death of a close family member or loved one. These fares typically provide significant savings compared to regular ticket prices, making it easier for mourners to attend funerals, visit family, or seek emotional support.
United Airlines’ Bereavement Fare Policy
Does United Airlines Offer Bereavement Fares?
Yes, United Airlines does offer bereavement fares for travel within the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.
Eligibility
To be eligible for United Airlines‘ bereavement fare, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must provide proof of the death of a close family member or loved one, such as a death certificate or obituary.
- The deceased person must have been a legal resident of the United States, Canada, Mexico, or Puerto Rico.
- You must travel within 14 days of the death.
- You must book your ticket at least 7 days in advance of travel.
Discount
United Airlines offers a 10% discount on its standard fares for bereavement travel. This discount is applied to the base fare only and does not include taxes, fees, or surcharges.
Booking Procedure
To book a bereavement fare with United Airlines, you can:
- Call United Airlines’ Reservations Department at 1-800-864-8331.
- Visit a United Airlines ticket counter at the airport.
- Book online through United Airlines’ website.
When booking online, select the “Bereavement Fare” option during the booking process.
Important Notes
- Bereavement fares are subject to availability and may not be available on all flights.
- You may be required to provide additional documentation to verify your eligibility for the bereavement fare.
- The 10% discount does not apply to United’s Basic Economy fares.
- Bereavement fares cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions.
Additional Support for Bereaved Travelers
In addition to bereavement fares, United Airlines offers other support services for bereaved travelers:
- Compassionate Care Team: United Airlines has a dedicated team of customer service representatives who are trained to provide compassionate assistance to bereaved travelers.
- Flexible Change Policies: United Airlines allows bereaved travelers to make changes or cancellations to their flights without penalty.
- Airport Assistance: United Airlines staff can provide assistance with baggage, transportation, and other airport needs for bereaved travelers.
The Bottom Line: Navigating Grief with United Airlines’ Support
Losing a loved one is an emotionally challenging time. United Airlines recognizes the need for compassionate travel options during this difficult period. By offering bereavement fares, providing additional support services, and demonstrating empathy, United Airlines helps alleviate the financial and logistical burdens associated with travel during bereavement.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: How do I provide proof of death for bereavement fare eligibility?
A: You can provide a death certificate, obituary, or other official document that verifies the death of your loved one.
Q: Can I book a bereavement fare for someone else?
A: Yes, you can book a bereavement fare for a family member or loved one who needs to travel.
Q: What happens if I need to cancel or change my bereavement flight?
A: United Airlines‘ flexible change policies allow you to make changes or cancellations without penalty. Contact United Airlines’ Reservations Department for assistance.
