How to Get Bereavement Airfare

It's a shock when a close relative dies unexpectedly, and the sorrow and pressure is compounded if the loved one resided in another state. The hassle of getting a last-minute plane ticket to attend the funeral can be reduced. Bereavement airfares, offered by most U.S. airlines, are available if you ask.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Call airlines directly or have your travel agent do it. Bereavement airfares aren't available over the Internet. Most bereavement airfares amount to roughly half of an average last-minute airfare.
2. Research last minute bargain airfares through the various airlines on their Internet websites. Some last-minute Internet airfares can be cheaper than bereavement airfares. Try websites like Expedia or Cheap Tickets as well.
3. Gather basic information about the deceased, date of the funeral service and the phone number and address of the funeral home. The airline salesperson may need this information when you purchase the ticket.
4. Remember that you need a copy of the death certificate or other documentation upon your return flight. Most bereavement fares give you an open return flight, which allows you to stay up to 30 days at your destination.
5. Consider the fact that deep-discount airlines like ATA and Southwest don't offer bereavement airfares since their regular prices are so low. If you occasionally use these carriers, you may try their websites for a cheap last-minute fare before checking with other airlines.

Tips & Warnings

• Most airlines offer bereavement airfares only for the death or grave illness of an immediate family member, not for the passing of a friend or distant relative.