No, United Airlines does not offer bereavement fare. Many passengers hope for bereavement fares; discounted or flexible tickets offered to those traveling due to a death in the family but United Airlines has changed its policies in recent years.
This guide covers everything you need to know about bereavement travel with United, including alternatives, tips to minimize last-minute costs, documentation requirements, and other airlines that may still offer such fares.
What is a Bereavement Fare?
Bereavement fares, also called bereavement flights, were traditionally discounted airline tickets designed for passengers who needed to travel due to a death or imminent death of a family member. These fares were introduced to provide financial relief and flexibility during a stressful and time-sensitive period.
Key Features of Traditional Bereavement Fares
- Lower-than-usual prices for last-minute bookings
- Waived change or cancellation fees if travel plans changed
- Eligibility limited to immediate family, often including spouse, parents, children, siblings, or grandparents
- Documentation required, such as a death certificate, hospital letter, or funeral home contact
Airlines like Delta Airlines, American Airlines, and Air Canada have historically offered these fares, though availability and discounts vary.
Expert Tip: Bereavement fares are rare today. Many carriers, including United, have phased them out in favor of flexible fare classes or dynamic pricing models.
Does United Airlines Offer Bereavement Fares?
Unfortunately, United Airlines no longer offers bereavement fares. The airline officially discontinued the policy in 2014, citing industry shifts toward dynamic pricing and unbundled fares.
United’s Official Statement
“United does not offer a bereavement fare. We offer a variety of fare options, including fully refundable fares that may suit your travel needs.”
This means that if you need to travel for a death in the family, you are subject to the same fare structures as all other passengers, regardless of the circumstances. While there’s no formal discount, there are still ways to reduce stress and costs during emergency travel.
Alternatives for Emergency Travel on United Airlines
Even without bereavement fares, you can take steps to make travel more manageable and cost-effective.
1. Book Flexible Fare Classes
United offers different fare classes that provide flexibility:
| Fare Type | Key Benefits | Considerations |
| Refundable | Cancel or reschedule without penalty | Higher upfront cost |
| Main Cabin Flexible | Lower change fees, some rescheduling options | Not fully refundable in all cases |
| MileagePlus Award Tickets | Use points to avoid cash fare spikes | Availability may be limited |
Expert Tip: While pricier upfront, refundable or flexible fares reduce financial stress if your travel plans change due to funeral or family obligations.
2. Use Same-Day Change and Standby Options
For domestic flights within 24 hours:
- United offers same-day confirmed changes and standby options.
- Fees range from $0 to $75, depending on fare class and MileagePlus status.
Pro Tip: This is especially useful if funeral arrangements or family needs change at the last minute. It’s not a discount, but it provides critical logistical flexibility.
3. MileagePlus Elite Members
If you are a Premier Silver, Gold, Platinum, or 1K member, you may benefit from:
- Waived same-day change fees
- Priority standby clearance
- Access to better seating
Note: No elite tier provides a bereavement-specific benefit, but these perks can reduce travel complications during emotional times.
4. Use Frequent Flyer Miles
- Redeeming MileagePlus points can help avoid expensive last-minute fares.
- Points redemption can be especially useful for international flights where cash fares may spike.
5. Travel Insurance Coverage
- Many travel insurance policies cover trip cancellation or interruption due to the death of an immediate family member.
- Check your policy carefully to confirm coverage and documentation requirements.
6. Community and Crowdfunding Support
- Platforms like Ever Loved allow families to raise funds for funeral and travel costs.
- You can share obituaries, event details, and a fundraising campaign with friends and family.
- This is particularly helpful if last-minute travel is required and you cannot afford expensive flights.
Costs of Emergency Flights
Even without bereavement fares, it’s useful to understand what emergency flights typically cost:
| Flight Type | Typical Price Range | Notes |
| Domestic last-minute | $200 – $1,000 | Prices increase closer to departure; peak travel dates are pricier |
| International last-minute | $800 – $2,500+ | Remote or high-demand destinations can exceed $3,000 |
Expert Tip: Compare multiple airlines, nearby airports, and consider alternative routes to find the most affordable option during emergencies.
How to Pay for Emergency Flights You Can’t Afford
When grief and financial strain coincide, consider these options:
- Family and Friends: Immediate support can sometimes cover last-minute flights.
- Employer Assistance: Some companies provide emergency financial support or paid bereavement leave.
- Negotiating With Airlines: Call customer service to explain your situation—agents may offer minor concessions or help with seat upgrades and fare adjustments.
- Credit Cards / Short-Term Loans: Some credit cards offer 0% interest periods, which can ease payment stress.
- Crowdfunding Platforms: Websites like Ever Loved allow your community to support travel expenses in addition to funeral costs.
What Other Airlines Require for Bereavement Fares
If you’re open to booking with a different carrier, some airlines still offer bereavement discounts:
| Airline | Policy | Required Documentation |
| Delta Airlines | Reduced fares for SkyMiles members | Name of deceased, relationship, funeral home contact |
| Air Canada | Bereavement fares for deaths within 10 days | Death certificate or official notice |
| Lufthansa | Case-by-case; flexible rebooking | Proof of death or emergency |
Tip: The savings from bereavement fares are often modest compared to standard flexible or refundable fares, but they can offer peace of mind when traveling under pressure.
Advice for Families Facing Sudden Loss
While United Airlines no longer offers bereavement fares, you are not without options.
- Call United’s customer service: Agents may exercise discretion in extenuating circumstances.
- Book flexible or refundable fares: Reduces financial risk and allows date changes.
- Use miles or points: Avoid dynamic last-minute price spikes.
- Gather documentation: Even if not required by United, it helps with insurance claims or booking accommodations with other carriers.
- Consider insurance and community support: Travel insurance and fundraising platforms can ease both the logistical and financial burdens.
Tip: Planning for emergencies in advance, even if just mentally or financially, can save considerable stress. Keeping annual travel insurance or a credit card with emergency travel benefits is highly recommended for frequent travelers or those caring for elderly relatives.
Tips to Save on Last-Minute Flights Without Bereavement Fares
- Use fare monitoring apps: Google Flights, Hopper, and Skyscanner track price drops.
- Search multiple airports: Nearby departure or arrival airports can sometimes reduce costs.
- Travel light: Choosing Basic Economy may save money when timing and price are critical.
- Book refundable tickets: Paying slightly more upfront may reduce stress if changes are necessary.
- Check credit card perks: Many travel-focused cards include emergency travel coverage.
FAQs: United Airlines Bereavement Fares
Can I get a refund for a flight if a family member dies?
Only if your ticket is refundable. United does not offer automatic bereavement refunds.
Can I change a flight due to a family emergency?
Yes, but fees may apply unless you booked a refundable or flexible fare.
Can travel insurance help?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance often covers trip cancellations due to death.
Can United make compassionate exceptions?
Rarely, but customer service agents may assist on a case-by-case basis. Always provide documentation.
Are there ways to reduce the cost of last-minute flights?
Use MileagePlus points, flexible fare classes, multiple airport options, or third-party travel portals.