Southwest Airlines Ending Senior Fares Discount This December
Just in time for the holiday travel season… 😩
Southwest Airlines has announced plans to discontinue its Senior Fares effective December 11, 2019.
As of that date, travelers ages 65 and over will no longer be able to purchase these discounted fares. For passengers in this age group who want to use the discount before the program ends, they can still book a flight into the month of April. This is how far ahead the airline is currently scheduling.
Why are Senior Fares being discontinued?
Many travelers in the 65+ age group were not taking advantage of Southwest’s Senior Fares because they were finding better rates through the airline’s “Wanna Get Away” program or other promotions. Southwest is now encouraging its passengers ages 65 and older to check out its other fare features, like refundable Anytime and Business Select fares, no change fees, and two free checked bags.
The airline still offers discounted fares for infants, children, and active-duty members of the Military. However, note that not all of these fares can be booked online so you are encouraged to call Southwest at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792) with questions about booking a discounted fare.
I used their senior discount once for my mother-in-law’s plane ticket. Saved me exactly $1!! 🙂
I guess every penny counts! 😂
I never found these “senior fares” to be less than “wanna get away” fares. I stopped looking at them given they were no deal. Guessing that’s why they were not used often. Not a big loss.
Yup. Seemed the same for military or child fares. But this was years ago.
I had no idea they offered children’s fares at a discount. My husband travels a lot for work and, a couple times, I’ve tried to see if we could book a flight to meet him somewhere for a couple of days. Next time, I’ll call and check their prices instead of assuming it’s too much based on regular airfare from the website!
Have you tried allegiant or frontier. No frills but it’ll get you from point a to b.
I pretty much only fly allegiant or frontier (with a couple of exceptions). The seats are not going to be the comfiest but the savings is SO worth it IMO.