Saluting Our Veterans: How to Get Discounted Airline Tickets
As a way to honor and give back to those who have served our country, many airlines offer discounted rates to veterans. These special offers are usually available only to military personnel and their families, and can come in the form of discounted fares, free bags, or even the ability to board the plane first.
However, finding and taking advantage of these offers can be a bit of a challenge. In this article, we’ll cover some of the key things you need to know to get discounted airline tickets as a veteran, including where to search for these deals, what documentation you’ll need to provide, and some of the best airlines to fly with.
Where to Find Deals
One of the first places to start when looking for discounted airline tickets is the airline’s own website. Many airlines have a specific page or section on their website dedicated to military discounts, so be sure to check there first.
Another option is to use third-party websites that specialize in finding and comparing airfare prices. Some of these websites, such as Expedia or Travelocity, will have specific filters you can use to search for military or veteran discounts.
Finally, it’s always worth calling the airline directly to see if they have any special offers or discounts that aren’t advertised online.
What Documentation You’ll Need
When claiming a military or veteran discount on airline tickets, you’ll usually need to provide some form of identification or documentation to prove your status. This might include your military ID card, your discharge papers, or even your VA healthcare card.
It’s important to note that not all airlines have the same requirements, so be sure to check with the specific airline you plan to fly with to see what documents they’ll need.
Best Airlines for Veterans
While most airlines offer some form of military or veteran discount, there are a few that go above and beyond in their support for the military community.
One such airline is JetBlue, which offers a special military fare that includes two free checked bags, no change or cancellation fees, and early boarding. American Airlines also offers a military fare that includes free checked bags and priority boarding, as well as a dedicated phone line for booking and customer service.
Other airlines that offer military or veteran discounts include Delta, Southwest, United, and Alaska Airlines.
Conclusion
Getting discounted airline tickets as a veteran can require some extra effort and research, but the savings can be well worth it. By knowing where to look for deals, what documentation you’ll need, and which airlines offer the best discounts, you can save money and enjoy a stress-free travel experience. And most importantly, you can take pride in knowing that the airline you’re flying with is recognizing and honoring your service to our country.
