Frontier Airlines is offering a 55% discount for travelers aged 55 and older through February 2025, representing one of the largest senior discounts on flights currently available.

Major carriers typically don’t advertise their senior fare programs prominently, yet the discounts exist and provide real savings. American Airlines, Delta, and United all offer special rates for passengers 65 and older, with discounts ranging from 5% to 50% off standard fares. British Airways provides AARP members with discounts up to 50% on select routes from the United States.

The booking process varies significantly between airlines. Some carriers require phone reservations, while others allow online booking through specific pathways or demand membership in particular programs. Each airline imposes different restrictions on routes, travel dates, and fare classes eligible for senior discounts.

Senior fare availability changes frequently based on routes, seasons, and seat inventory. Research shows these hidden discounts can reduce travel costs by hundreds of dollars when properly accessed and applied to international or premium cabin bookings.

Air France Senior Pass

The Air France Senior Pass provides up to 30% discount for travelers aged 65 and above. Air France structures this program differently from other senior flight discounts, offering consistent benefits through a formal membership system rather than ad-hoc discounts.

Air France Senior Pass benefits for seniors

Air France Senior Pass delivers several concrete benefits for older travelers:

• Up to 30% off standard fares on flights within metropolitan France and select European destinations
• One free checked bag included with every ticket, regardless of fare class
• Enhanced ticket flexibility with lower change and cancelation fees compared to regular tickets
• Reduced service fees when making changes (€20 for Economy cabin and no fee for Business cabin)

The pass applies to Air France operated flights and extends to select partner routes, including Air Corsica connections between Paris and Corsica. Both Economy and Business class bookings qualify for discounts, making the program valuable across different travel preferences.

Air France Senior Pass pricing and eligibility

The Air France Senior Pass costs €49 (approximately $53) per year, substantially less than previous pricing noted in older sources. Only travelers 65 and older qualify for this program, with passes remaining valid for one full year from activation.

Air France claims the pass typically pays for itself on the first trip. A round-trip flight within France costing €200 would generate a 30% discount of €60—exceeding the pass cost and delivering immediate value.

The pass is available exclusively for bookings made from metropolitan France. While the program covers numerous European destinations, flights to the United States are specifically excluded from eligibility.

How to book flights with Air France Senior Pass

Booking with the Air France Senior Pass requires following specific steps:

1. Purchase the Senior Pass through Air France’s website
2. Receive a digital confirmation email with your unique pass number
3. Provide this number when booking online or by calling +33 (0) 9 69 39 36 54
4. Carry proof of your pass (digital or printed) along with identification to the airport

Passengers who fail to present their Senior Pass during airport verification face a price adjustment fee of €49. Senior Pass holders booking tickets for companions must call the dedicated phone line as online booking isn’t available for this purpose.

Air France recommends that travelers requiring special accommodations arrive early at the airport and keep necessary medications in hand baggage. The airline offers additional comfort options like Seat Plus for Economy passengers seeking extra legroom during their journey.

American Airlines Senior Discounts

American Airlines implements a targeted approach to senior discounts, focusing on select international routes rather than offering universal savings. These discounts remain less publicized than competitors’ programs yet still provide valuable savings for travelers aged 65 and above.

How to find American Airlines senior fares

Senior discounts on American Airlines aren’t prominently displayed, requiring specific search methods to locate them:

Visit AA.com and select “Advanced Search” during booking, then choose “Senior Citizen Discount” from the dropdown menu before entering travel details. Alternatively, call American Airlines Reservations directly, as phone representatives can check discount availability across multiple dates and routes.

Senior fares don’t automatically appear in standard search results—they must be specifically requested. When booking online, selecting the “lowest fare” option maximizes potential savings. The discount applies only to the base airfare and directly associated taxes and fees, not to all charges.

American Airlines senior discount eligibility

American Airlines sets specific criteria for senior discount qualification:

Passengers must be 65 years or older at the time of travel, with age verification potentially required during booking or at check-in. Discounts appear predominantly on select international routes, primarily to Latin America.

Domestic flights within the United States generally don’t qualify for senior discounts. Typical savings range between 10% to 15% off the base fare, though exact amounts vary based on routes, destinations, and ticket availability.

Tips for booking senior tickets on American Airlines

The availability of senior fares fluctuates considerably depending on multiple factors:

Senior fares are limited and often unavailable during peak travel periods. Major holidays and high-demand travel seasons show reduced senior fare inventory. Checking flights from alternative nearby airports sometimes reveals better senior fare options.

While the AAdvantage loyalty program doesn’t offer specific senior discounts, travelers can still earn miles on senior fare tickets for future travel benefits. American Airlines provides supplemental services for senior travelers, including priority boarding and mobility assistance.

Any unused portion of a discounted flight may be non-refundable, and the discount cannot transfer to other passengers. Senior fares may have different cancellation and change policies compared to standard tickets.

British Airways AARP Member Discounts

British Airways stands out among all airline senior benefits with its unique partnership offering substantial discounts exclusively through AARP membership. These savings aren’t limited strictly to seniors, despite what many travelers assume.

British Airways senior discount through AARP

British Airways has formed a special partnership with the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) that creates one of the most valuable senior flight discounts available today. While AARP advocates for retired individuals, anyone 18 or older can join the organization. Travelers of any age can access these impressive airfare discounts simply by becoming an AARP member.

The discount applies to round-trip transatlantic tickets to more than 130 destinations worldwide, including locations across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. This partnership represents one of the most straightforward ways to secure guaranteed senior discount airline tickets without complex eligibility requirements.

How much can seniors save with British Airways

The AARP-British Airways partnership offers clearly defined savings:

• $65 off World Traveler (economy) standard fares
• $65 off World Traveler Plus (premium economy) fares
• $200 off Club World (business class) fares

These discounts apply only to standard fares—basic economy tickets are specifically excluded. Both outbound and inbound flights must be booked in the same cabin class.

The offer remains valid for outbound travel through January 31, 2026, providing a long-term option for planning future trips. An AARP membership costs approximately $16 per year, meaning the program pays for itself after booking just one discounted flight.

Booking process for AARP members

Securing these discounts requires following specific steps. First, access your AARP account through the dedicated AARP travel benefits page. If you don’t have an account yet, you’ll need to create one during this process.

After logging in, you’ll be redirected to British Airways’ special AARP discount page where you can begin searching for flights. Throughout the booking process, eligible discounted fares will be clearly marked with the word “Discount”.

This offer is available exclusively online. The discount will not apply if you book through a British Airways call center or travel agent. Additionally, the offer is only valid for US residents paying in US dollars, with travel originating from the United States.

The discount cannot be combined with other promotions and applies only to new bookings. For maximum value, consider applying this discount to business class tickets, where the $200 savings per person can significantly reduce your total vacation cost.

Delta Airlines Senior Fares

Delta Airlines maintains its senior discount program as a largely unpublicized benefit, creating savings opportunities many travelers over 65 never discover. Unlike competitors who actively promote senior programs, Delta keeps these special fares relatively hidden from public view.

Delta’s hidden senior discounts explained

Delta provides fare reductions exclusively for passengers aged 65 and older. These unpublicized discounts typically range from 5% to 15% off regular fares on select routes.

These senior discounts don’t appear on Delta’s main booking page. Delta’s official website explicitly states that “certain discounts or companion fares may apply to a selected itinerary but are not available at delta.com”.

Travelers must present valid identification as proof of age to qualify. The exact discount amount fluctuates based on multiple factors, including flight route, class of service, and seat availability. Enrolling in Delta’s SkyMiles program can provide additional savings when used alongside senior discounts.

How to access Delta senior fares via phone

Delta’s senior discounts require phone booking since they aren’t available through the airline’s website. To access these fares:

1. Call Delta’s reservation line at 1-800-221-1212
2. Inform the agent you’re inquiring about senior citizen discounts
3. Provide your travel details (departure/arrival airports, dates, preferred times)
4. Mention if you’re a SkyMiles member for potential additional benefits
5. Compare the senior fare with other available promotions before finalizing

Check your email for confirmation details after completing your booking. Bring identification to the airport to verify your eligibility for the senior fare at check-in.

Delta senior discount availability by route

Delta’s senior discount program applies selectively rather than universally across all flights. Availability varies considerably depending on:

• Route specificity – Some destinations offer better senior discount opportunities than others
• Seasonal timing – Off-peak seasons and weekdays typically provide more senior fare availability
• Advance booking – Earlier reservations generally access better senior discount rates
• Group travel – Ten or more seniors traveling together may qualify for additional group rates

Flexibility with travel dates significantly increases chances of securing the best senior fares. Domestic routes consistently offer more senior discount availability compared to international destinations.

For maximum savings, consider combining your senior discount with Delta’s promotional offers, which may include seasonal sales or destination-specific deals that further reduce your fare.

United Airlines Senior Discounts

United Airlines offers more modest senior fare reductions compared to carriers that heavily promote discount programs. These savings exist but require specific knowledge to access them.

United Airlines senior fare eligibility

United Airlines provides discounts exclusively for passengers aged 65 and older. This age requirement cannot be negotiated and significantly limits eligibility compared to programs like Frontier’s 55+ discounts. The discount applies to select flights only, with savings typically ranging from 5% to 25% off the base fare.

These fare reductions appear predominantly on certain international routes, particularly to Latin American destinations such as Ecuador, Honduras, and Panama—where seniors may receive up to a 25% discount. Availability fluctuates considerably based on:

• Flight route and destination
• Travel dates and seasonality
• Current promotional offers
• Seat availability in each fare class

Blackout dates apply, particularly during peak travel periods. United does not guarantee senior discounts across all routes, making individual itinerary verification essential.

How to book United senior tickets online

Booking with United’s senior discount requires following a specific process:

1. Visit United.com and enter your travel details
2. Under “Travelers,” select “Senior 65+” from the dropdown menu
3. Complete your search—the system automatically displays applicable discounts
4. Review options carefully, as senior fares may occasionally cost more than promotional fares

Phone booking sometimes reveals additional opportunities. United’s reservation agents can access senior fares not visible through online searches. For travelers requiring assistance, United provides supplemental services including priority boarding, wheelchair support, and oxygen accommodations.

Legacy Silver Wings Plus program overview

Silver Wings Plus represents a notable chapter in airlines with senior discounts history. Established in 1986 for travelers 55 and older, this program counted 560,000 members by 1996.

United discontinued new memberships in 2007. Lifetime members who joined before September 2005 still retain significant benefits:

• Discounted zone-based airfares on domestic and international routes
• Companion benefits allowing friends or family (any age) to travel at the same discount
• Integration with the MileagePlus program for earning flight miles
• Availability on both United and partner airline flights

Between 2007 and 2016, United processed 5,048 Silver Wings zoned fare bookings, demonstrating the program’s continued value for remaining members. These tickets typically require 14-day advance purchase and roundtrip itineraries.

Frontier Airlines 55FOR55 Promo

Frontier Airlines is offering one of the industry’s most substantial senior discounts with its 55FOR55 promotion, which reduces base fares by 55% for travelers aged 55 and older. This limited-time offer covers flights through February 26, 2025.

How Frontier’s 55% off promo works

The 55FOR55 promotion gives travelers 55 and older a 55% discount off base fares on select Frontier flights. The offer applies to both domestic and international routes, including nonstop and connecting flights. The discount covers only the base fare—not government taxes, fees, or carrier-imposed charges.

Frontier restricts eligible travel dates to Mondays through Thursdays and Saturdays. Additional requirements include:

• Round-trip bookings only (no one-way tickets)
• 7-day advance purchase
• Booking directly through FlyFrontier.com

Tyri Squyres, Vice President of Marketing at Frontier, states, “The early bird gets the deals, and we’re offering customers 55 and up a new reason to get a head start on their winter travel plans with the extra savings they deserve”.

Eligibility and blackout dates for Frontier senior discount

Passengers must be 55 years or older at the time of travel to qualify for this discount. Proof of age may be required during booking or at check-in.

The discount excludes certain fare classes (J, N, I, C, R, Y, B, and H)—typically Frontier’s highest fares. Extensive blackout dates apply, including:

• November 26-27, 30, 2024
• December 1-2, 21-31, 2024
• January 1-7, 2025
• February 13-14, 16-17, 2025

Several route exclusions exist, including flights to Phoenix from Atlanta, Dallas, and Detroit.

How to apply the 55FOR55 promo code

Securing this discount requires following specific steps:

1. Visit FlyFrontier.com directly
2. Enter your travel details (origin, destination, dates)
3. Before completing your search, enter promo code “55FOR55” in the designated field
4. Complete your booking through Frontier’s website

Travelers can also request the discount through Frontier’s call center. Third-party use of the promo code is expressly prohibited.

Southwest Airlines Senior Fares

Southwest Airlines creates confusion regarding senior discounts on flights. Contradictory information exists across multiple sources about whether these discounts are actually available.

How to access Southwest senior discounts

According to Southwest’s official help center, the airline does not offer senior fares. Other sources claim passengers aged 65 and older can receive discounts up to 25% off regular fares. This contradiction necessitates research before booking travel.

If investigating Southwest’s senior fare options:

• Check the official Southwest website and look for the “Senior Fare” filter under “Other Filters” when searching for flights
• Provide your birth date during booking for age verification if prompted
• Bring valid photo ID as proof of age to the airport

Why you need to call to book Southwest senior fares

The contradictory information suggests calling Southwest Airlines directly provides the best approach. Even though the airline officially states they don’t offer senior fares, phone agents might access unadvertised promotions or fare types not visible online.

Several sources recommend calling Southwest’s reservation number at 1-800-435-9792 to inquire about potential senior discounts. Speaking directly with a representative offers the most reliable method to clarify current policies.

Tips for maximizing savings with Southwest

Even without specific senior discounts, Southwest offers several cost-reduction strategies:

Southwest’s Low Fare Calendar provides a monthly view of flight prices for specific routes. This tool delivers particular value for travelers with flexible plans.

Signing up for Southwest’s email newsletter provides notifications about sales and promotions. The airline frequently releases fare sales every Tuesday.

Southwest’s ‘Wanna Get Away’ fares typically offer the lowest prices. These budget-friendly options serve as alternatives to dedicated senior discounts.

Vistara Senior Discounts in India

Vistara, India’s premium airline, challenges the notion that senior flight discounts exist primarily in Western markets. The carrier offers structured savings for elderly travelers exploring the Indian subcontinent through its senior citizen program.

Vistara’s senior fare structure

Vistara offers up to 10% discount off the adult base fare for passengers booking under economy standard and economy flexi fare categories. Travelers selecting economy lite fares receive a reduced 5% discount off the base fare. These discounts apply solely to the base ticket price, not to taxes or ancillary fees.

Different sources initially reported conflicting information about discount percentages – one claiming seniors receive a flat 8% off flight tickets. More reliable sources confirm the tiered 5-10% structure based on fare class. The discount was previously not applicable to premium economy or business class bookings, though this policy appears to have changed according to more recent information.

Eligibility and blackout dates for Vistara

Passengers must have reached 60 years of age at the time of journey to qualify for these discounts. This age requirement makes Vistara’s program more accessible than airlines requiring travelers to be 65+. These discounts are available exclusively for bookings made within India.

Vistara imposes blackout dates during which senior discounts cannot be applied. The airline doesn’t publicly list these restricted dates, making direct verification necessary when booking.

How to book Vistara senior tickets

Securing Vistara’s senior discount requires following specific protocols:

1. Book exclusively through Vistara’s official website (airvistara.com)
2. Carry a valid government-issued ID with proof of age[342]
3. Present identification at check-in for verification[342]

Failure to provide proper age verification at check-in results in being charged the prevailing standard fare. Passengers must carry appropriate identification throughout their journey.

IndiGo Airlines Senior Savings

IndiGo, India’s largest budget carrier, implements a straightforward senior discount program with clearly defined eligibility requirements and booking procedures. These discounts provide consistent savings for older travelers exploring the Indian subcontinent.

IndiGo’s 6% senior discount explained

IndiGo Airlines offers a 6% discount exclusively on the base fare for senior citizens. This discount applies to passengers aged 60 years and above, making it more accessible than programs requiring travelers to be 65+. IndiGo honors this discount on both one-way and round-trip bookings.

Verification is strictly enforced—passengers must provide valid government-issued identification at check-in to prove their age eligibility. Travelers unable to verify their senior status will be charged the standard fare. The discount applies to the base fare only, with passengers remaining responsible for all applicable fees and taxes.

Booking process for senior fares on IndiGo

Accessing IndiGo’s senior discount requires following three specific steps:

1. Select passenger count in the search widget, including senior citizens traveling together
2. On the search results page, specifically select “senior citizen fare”
3. Enter passenger details and complete the booking process

These discounted fares are available exclusively through IndiGo’s official website (goindigo.in) or mobile application. The discount cannot be accessed through third-party booking sites or travel agencies. Web check-in remains available for discounted senior citizen bookings.

Domestic travel restrictions for IndiGo senior fares

The senior citizen discount applies exclusively to domestic flights within India. International routes operated by IndiGo are specifically excluded from this discount program.

This discount cannot be combined with any other offers, discounts, or promotions from IndiGo. The airline maintains full rights to modify or cancel the scheme without prior notification.

These discounted tickets remain both changeable and cancellable, providing flexibility for travelers whose plans might shift. All bookings fall under IndiGo’s standard conditions of carriage.

Air India Domestic Senior Fares

Air India provides notable senior flight discounts for domestic travelers in India that were previously among the country’s most generous. The current program offers eligible seniors a minimum 10% discount on base fares for economy travel within India.

Air India’s senior discount eligibility

Air India establishes specific requirements for accessing senior discounts:

• Age requirement of 60 years or older on the date of journey commencement
• Indian nationality
• Permanent residency in India

Passengers must present valid photo identification showing date of birth, such as a voter ID card, passport, driver’s license, or a senior citizen ID card issued by Air India. Verification occurs both during booking and at the airport—without exceptions.

How to book Air India senior tickets

Booking with the senior discount requires selecting ‘Senior Citizen’ in the ‘Concession Type’ dropdown on Air India’s website booking widget. Unlike many competitors, Air India’s senior discount cannot be accessed through third-party websites.

Identity verification happens at multiple points:

• At city ticketing offices or airport ticketing offices
• At check-in counters
• Again at the boarding gate

Travelers can maximize savings by combining the senior discount with Air India’s UPI payment promotion using code “UPIPROMO” for an additional flat discount of INR 400 on website bookings or INR 500 through the Air India app.

Limitations of Air India’s senior fares

Air India previously offered 50% off base fares for seniors, but as of September 29, 2022, this has been reduced to 25%. The airline maintains this discount still remains “nearly double” compared to other private carriers.

Several restrictions apply to these discounted fares:

• Applicable only on economy cabin bookings
• Valid exclusively on domestic routes within India
• Not applicable on Air India Express codeshare flights
• Tickets must be purchased at least three days before departure
• Non-endorsable and non-reroutable tickets

Passengers failing to present proper identification at check-in forfeit the base fare, with only taxes and levies refunded. Travelers denied boarding without ID verification face charges of double the booked fare plus applicable taxes.

Silver Wings Plus (United Airlines Legacy Program)

The discontinued Silver Wings Plus program remains a hidden gem for certain travelers, representing one of United Airlines’ most valuable senior flight discounts that new customers can no longer access.

What is Silver Wings Plus?

Launched in 1986, Silver Wings Plus was United Airlines’ dedicated travel program designed for passengers aged 55 and older. The program counted 560,000 members by 1996 and offered substantial discounts on both domestic and international airfare. United gradually phased out the program, ultimately stopping new memberships in 2007.

Silver Wings Plus previously offered two membership options: a two-year membership for $75 or a lifetime membership for $225. The lifetime option provided particular value for frequent travelers. Throughout its operation, the program used zone-based pricing with fixed fares regardless of seasonal fluctuations or demand.

Who still qualifies for Silver Wings Plus benefits

Only travelers who became lifetime members before September 2005 can still use Silver Wings Plus benefits. These members retain access to discounted fares on both domestic and international round-trip flights.

Between 2007 and 2016, United processed 5,048 Silver Wings zoned fare bookings, showing many legacy members continue utilizing these benefits. The program allows members to extend identical discounts to a companion traveler without age restrictions, enabling seniors to bring along children, grandchildren, friends, or spouses.

How to use Silver Wings Plus for senior airfare discounts

Eligible Silver Wings Plus members can book discounted fares by signing into their MileagePlus account. These tickets typically require purchase at least 14 days in advance and must be for roundtrip travel or multi-city itineraries.

Members can access the lowest available discount fares for themselves and one companion on both domestic and international flights. In addition to fare savings, members’ bookings still earn MileagePlus miles on eligible fares, further increasing the program’s value.

Even as United now primarily offers limited senior discounts for travelers 65+ on select routes, Silver Wings Plus members enjoy substantially better benefits through this closed legacy program.

Comparison Table

Airline	Age Requirement	Discount Amount	Booking Method	Geographic Availability	Key Restrictions/Notes
Air France	65+	Up to 30%	Online or phone (+33 0 9 69 39 36 54)	Metropolitan France & select European routes	€49 annual pass required; US flights excluded
American Airlines	65+	10-15%	AA.com Advanced Search or phone	Select international routes (primarily Latin America)	Limited domestic availability
British Airways (AARP)	18+ (AARP member)	$65-$200 off	Online through AARP portal	US to international destinations	Must be US resident; AARP membership required
Delta Airlines	65+	5-15%	Phone only (1-800-221-1212)	Select routes	Not available online
United Airlines	65+	5-25%	Online or phone	Select international routes	Limited availability
Frontier Airlines	55+	55%	Online with code “55FOR55”	Domestic & international routes	Valid through Feb 2025; round-trip only
Southwest Airlines	65+	Not specified	Phone (1-800-435-9792)	Not specified	Conflicting information on availability
Vistara	60+	5-10%	Official website only	Domestic Indian routes	Bookings within India only
IndiGo Airlines	60+	6%	Official website or mobile app	Domestic Indian routes	Base fare only
Air India	60+	10% minimum	Official website	Domestic Indian routes	Indian nationals/residents only
Silver Wings Plus	55+	Varies by zone	MileagePlus account	Domestic & international routes	Closed program; only pre-2005 lifetime members eligible

Conclusion

Senior flight discounts represent a valuable but often overlooked opportunity for older travelers in 2025. Research shows savings range from modest 5-15% discounts at major carriers like Delta and United to substantial deals like Frontier’s 55% off promotion for travelers 55 and older.

Accessing these discounts requires specific knowledge. Major U.S. carriers typically set eligibility at 65+, while international airlines like Air France and Indian carriers Vistara and IndiGo extend benefits to travelers as young as 55 or 60. Phone bookings frequently reveal better deals than online searches, particularly with Delta and Southwest Airlines.

British Airways’ partnership with AARP stands out among discount programs, offering up to $200 off business class fares. This program remains accessible to any AARP member regardless of age. Meanwhile, legacy members of United’s discontinued Silver Wings Plus program continue enjoying favorable zone-based pricing unavailable to new customers.

Despite varying booking processes and restrictions between airlines, the potential savings make investigating senior fares worthwhile. Comparing senior rates against regular promotional fares often yields the best value, as discounted senior tickets sometimes cost more than standard sale fares depending on travel dates and routes.

FAQs

Q1. What is the typical age requirement for senior flight discounts? Most airlines offer senior discounts to passengers aged 65 and older, though some carriers like Frontier Airlines and certain international airlines extend benefits to travelers as young as 55 or 60.

Q2. How much can seniors typically save on flights? Senior discounts generally range from 5% to 15% off regular fares, with some airlines offering more substantial savings. For example, Frontier Airlines provides a 55% discount for travelers 55 and older on select flights.

Q3. Are senior flight discounts available on all routes and fare classes? No, senior discounts are usually limited to specific routes and fare classes. They are more commonly available on domestic flights and select international routes, particularly to Latin America. Availability can vary significantly between airlines.

Q4. How do I book a flight using a senior discount? Booking methods vary by airline. Some allow online bookings through their websites, while others require phone reservations. Always check the airline’s specific booking process for senior fares, as they may not be visible in standard online searches.

Q5. Can I combine senior discounts with other promotions or loyalty program benefits? Generally, senior discounts cannot be combined with other promotional offers. However, some airlines allow you to earn loyalty program miles on senior fare tickets. It’s best to compare senior rates against regular promotional fares to ensure you’re getting the best deal.