Very few U.S. airlines still publish senior discounts. American, United and JetBlue offer senior fares for travelers 65+ on select routes, Delta offers them in some markets by phone, and Frontier runs occasional 55+ promotions. Southwest ended senior fares in 2019. Senior fares are often not the cheapest option, so always compare them with the regular fare, sales and points.
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Airline Senior Discounts in 2026
| Airline | Age | What is offered |
|---|---|---|
| American | 65+ | Senior fare on select routes; no published percentage |
| United | 65+ | Senior fare on select routes; no fixed discount |
| JetBlue | 65+ | Senior fare on select routes |
| Delta | Varies | Select markets, booked by phone |
| Frontier | 55+ | Periodic promotions, not year-round |
| Air France Senior Pass | 65+ | Up to 30% off for an annual fee; departures from mainland France |
| Southwest | n/a | Senior fares ended in 2019 |
| Spirit, Allegiant | n/a | No senior discount |
Source: SeniorSite airline review, verified against airline pages September 29, 2026. Policies change; confirm with the airline.
9 Better Ways for Seniors to Save on Flights
- Use flexible dates. Midweek flights are often cheaper, and retirees can take advantage.
- Compare in one search. A fare search tool shows senior, basic and sale fares together.
- Set fare alerts and book when prices drop.
- Book round trips and one-ways both ways. Two one-ways sometimes beat a return fare.
- Check nearby airports. Smaller airports can be cheaper and easier to navigate.
- Use points and miles. A travel rewards card or a few years of loyalty points can cover a ticket.
- Know what basic economy excludes before booking: seat choice, carry-ons and changes.
- Ask for free airport services. Wheelchair help and pre-boarding are free on every U.S. airline; request them when booking.
- Bundle a vacation package when you also need a hotel and car.
Compare flight prices on OneTravel
How to Book a Senior Fare
On airline websites that offer them, choose “Senior (65+)” in the passenger type dropdown before searching. Bring ID showing your age. If no senior option appears, the route has no senior fare. Call the airline to ask, but compare the quote with the online regular fare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do airlines still offer senior discounts?
A few do. American, United and JetBlue offer senior fares for travelers 65+ on select routes, Delta in some markets by phone, and Frontier during occasional 55+ promotions. Southwest, Spirit and Allegiant do not.
Are there discount flights for seniors over 55?
Rarely. Frontier has run limited 55+ promotions. Most U.S. airline senior fares start at 65. Flexible dates and fare alerts usually save more.
Are senior airfares cheaper than regular fares?
Not always. Senior fares are often more flexible but can cost more than a sale or basic economy fare. Compare them side by side before booking.
Does Southwest have a senior discount?
No. Southwest ended its senior fares in 2019.
Can I get discounted return flights as a senior?
Where senior fares exist, they usually apply to round trips on select routes. Compare a round-trip fare with two one-way tickets, which can be cheaper.
Source: SeniorSite, “Senior Airline Discounts 2026” (updated Sept. 29, 2026). Airline policies change often; confirm before booking.
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