My Uncle is dying at any time now! Airline question.?

Question

At anytime I will be getting a call that my Uncle has passed. Does anyone know about airline policy? If I just go to the airport when I get the bad news will I be able to get an emergency flight?

Answer 1

You might have to pay extra for the fare since it's not made within 14 days of travel.

I'm very sorry to hear about your uncle. That's very sad news. Good luck with everything...

xoxox

Answer 2

It really depends where you are at. Some airports might have a flight for you, but the thing is, anyone can just say that they have a death in the family in order to get an earier flight back home.

My suggestion is you go back home as soon as possible and spend as much time as you can with him as well as be there for your family.

God Bless

Answer 3

Most, not all, airlines have bereavement or compassion fares.  Call the airline's reservations call center for further information and restrictions.

Answer 4

Most airlines do not have bereavement fares...and those who may , give it only for a parent, spouse , or child...and those are rare.  If you wait til he dies and go to the airport to buy a ticket, you will pay a very high fare.   And there is no quarantee that there will be space available. Wouldn't it be much better to spend your money to see him while he is alive?  You could check now on which airlines serve the city you need to fly to and check on fares, etc.  Do not wait til the last minute then expect things to work out  smoothly..go now, or at least, plan now.

Answer 5

My condolences to you and your family.

Most airlines offer the bereavement fare, although all airlines differ in their prices for bereavement fares, and usually you are to pay full price up front and then submit the "evidence" of the death in the family (because a lot of people take advantage of the lower fare) to get a refund.

-The bereavement fare is not always the lowest fare, although many times (especially in last minute situation) it can be. It can also be more flexible when you need to change dates around.

-Last minute airfare can be cheaper (sometimes, but not always), but also comes with more restrictions, and does not allow you the opportunity to easily change dates around.

When you call the airlines, inform them that there is a death (or imminent death) in the family and you would like the bereavement fare.

To get this discounted fare most airlines will ask for:

* The name of the deceased

* Your relationship to that person

* The name, address and phone number funeral home (when you are submitting for a refund after completing air travel)

* Date of the service (when you are submitting for a refund after completing air travel)

* A copy of the death certificate (when you are submitting for a refund after completing air travel)

Please note that with most airlines you are only eligible for this fare if you are a parent, grandparent (including step-parent and in-laws), spouse, child, aunt/uncle, sibling (including step-siblings/in-laws), and niece/nephew. Most airlines (but not all) also include same s*x domestic partners and legal guardians as eligible family members.

Most airlines that offer bereavement fares will waive last minute restrictions and allow you to book using your frequent flyer miles as long as there is frequent flyer space available for the flights, and provided you give the airline the information outlined above.

Sometimes you may not be able to get all of the above details before you travel. Hold onto receipts, boarding passes, and obtain a copy of the death certificate and provide the details mentioned above. Submit these items to the airline as soon as possible after you have completed travel (many airlines have time limits for obtaining refunds). Keep a photocopy of the items that you have given to the airline. This is essential in obtaining your refund for the value of the discount after completion of travel.

Not all airlines provide bereavement fares. Again, bereavement fares are not always the least expensive option out there, but quite often they are. If you are applying for a refund after completing your travel, do make sure that the airline you are using does offer a bereavement fare prior to travel. Bereavement fares exist to offer you travel options for when you need to travel at the last minute because of imminent death or a death in the family.

Here are some tips for finding cheap fares:

-- Sometimes the internet is cheaper, sometimes the phone operators are cheaper, and sometimes travel agents are cheaper. Check out all three to make sure you get the best deal.

-- Choose the same airline for all legs of your itinerary whenever possible so you can take advantage of all connecting and round-trip airfares.

-- Try to fly on the least popular days: Tuesday, Wednesday or Saturday.

-- Remember that Saturday night stays are usually required for most bargain airfares.

-- Try to select the least popular flight times: mid-morning or late evening.

-- Check with discount airlines for cheaper fares.

-- Consider using alternate airports near your desired airport. The extra drive can save you hundreds of dollars.

If I can be of more assistance, feel free to contact me

Answer 6

Airlines offer bereavement fares, but sometimes they are more expensive then their cheapest, non-refundable fares. I would call the airline (whichever one you prefer) and explain the situation.

Good luck.