Grief doesn’t wait for convenient timing. If you’ve ever had to book a last-minute flight because a loved one passed, or is critically ill, you know how stressful and expensive that can be. I’ve been in that situation, and I’ve also helped clients and friends navigate it. One of the most common questions I get is, “Does Delta offer bereavement fares?”
The short answer is yes, but only under very specific conditions. And unlike regular flight bookings, bereavement fares are not available online. You’ll need to call Delta directly, follow the proper steps, and have documentation ready. That said, the process is straightforward if you know what to expect, and in many cases, it can offer more flexibility and peace of mind than a standard last-minute fare.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything I know, from personal experience and deep policy research, about booking bereavement fares with Delta Airlines in 2025.
Does Delta Offer Bereavement Fares in 2025?
Yes, Delta Airlines still offers bereavement fares in 2025. However, they are only available to SkyMiles members and must be booked over the phone. These fares are not necessarily cheaper than standard fares, but they offer increased flexibility for travel during a family emergency, especially when you need to travel with little notice.
A bereavement fare allows you to:
- Travel on short notice for a death or imminent death of an immediate family member
- Make changes or cancellations with fewer penalties
- Book a one-way or round-trip fare without the usual price surge of last-minute tickets
In my experience, the biggest benefit is the reduced stress of change fees or refund complications, not necessarily a rock-bottom price.
Who Qualifies for a Delta Bereavement Fare?
Delta’s bereavement fares apply when there has been a death or life-threatening illness or injury of an immediate family member. According to Delta, this includes:
- Spouse or domestic partner
- Parents or step-parents
- Children or step-children
- Siblings or step-siblings
- Grandparents and grandchildren
- In-laws (mother, father, daughter, son, brother, sister)
- Aunts and uncles
- Nieces and nephews
In practice, Delta is fairly strict about adhering to this list. If the relationship doesn’t fit their definition of immediate family, they may deny the bereavement fare. I’ve seen travelers try to apply this to a close friend or godparent, but it was declined.
When Can You Use a Bereavement Fare?
You can request a bereavement fare if:
- A family member has died
- A family member is critically ill or injured, with death expected within days
Delta allows you to travel to or from the location of the dying or deceased family member. You can book a one-way or round-trip ticket. If the situation changes and you need to return sooner or stay longer, bereavement fares offer more flexibility to make that adjustment.
I’ve personally used this when my father was in critical care. The ability to leave within 24 hours and adjust my return flight later without heavy penalties made a huge difference emotionally and financially.
How to Book a Bereavement Fare on Delta
You cannot book a bereavement fare online or through a travel agent. You must call Delta Reservations directly. Here’s how the process works:
- Call Delta Reservations at 1-800-221-1212
- Inform the agent that you are calling to book a bereavement fare
- Provide your SkyMiles number (required)
- Be prepared to give the following details:
- Name and relationship of the deceased or critically ill person
- Name and location of the hospital, hospice, or funeral home
- Name and phone number of a medical professional or funeral director who can verify the situation
The agent will provide available bereavement fare options based on your route. I’ve found that not every route offers special pricing, but you’ll typically get access to more flexible ticket rules than with standard Basic Economy or Main Cabin fares.
What Documentation Is Required?
Delta does not usually require documentation at the time of booking, but they may request it afterward for verification. Be prepared to provide:
- A copy of the death certificate or obituary
- A letter or statement from a hospital or hospice care provider
- Contact details for verification purposes
In my case, I was never asked to submit proof, but the funeral home was contacted directly by the airline after my trip. If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies, always ask the agent. They’ll let you know exactly what’s needed.
Are Bereavement Fares Always Cheaper?
Not necessarily. In fact, sometimes bereavement fares cost more than Delta’s promotional or Basic Economy fares. The value comes from the fare conditions, not the base price. You’re paying for flexibility, including:
- No change fees
- Refundable or partially refundable fares (depending on class)
- Same-day change options
- Last-minute booking availability
If your travel dates are uncertain, or may change based on medical or family developments, this flexibility can save you hundreds in change fees and emotional stress.
In one case, I had to move my return flight by three days. Because I booked using Delta’s bereavement policy, the change was allowed with no extra charge, even though the new flight had a higher base fare.
Are Bereavement Fares Available Internationally?
Yes, Delta offers bereavement fares on both domestic and international flights, as long as the travel meets the qualifying criteria. For international routes, be prepared for higher taxes and fees, and longer verification times.
Booking international bereavement fares often requires:
- Passport information at time of booking
- More thorough documentation of the death or illness
- Additional review time by Delta staff or supervisors
In my experience, international bereavement fares can be significantly more flexible than international Basic Economy tickets, which are usually non-refundable and highly restrictive. Still, always ask the agent to compare the bereavement fare with current standard fares, you might find a better price, even if the fare is less flexible.
Tips for Booking Bereavement Travel Smoothly
- Enroll in SkyMiles before calling – Delta requires you to be a SkyMiles member to qualify. It’s free and takes just a minute.
- Call as soon as possible – Bereavement fares are only offered before travel begins. They cannot be retroactively applied.
- Take notes during your call – Write down the fare class, flexibility terms, and agent name in case of later changes.
- Ask for price comparison – Always ask the agent to quote both bereavement and standard fares.
- Be honest and clear – Delta staff are compassionate but will verify the situation. Have your facts straight and contacts ready.
Is It Worth Booking a Bereavement Fare?
If you’re dealing with the sudden loss or medical crisis of a loved one, Delta’s bereavement policy can provide some structure in the chaos. In many cases, you might find a cheaper fare online, but if you’re unsure of your travel dates or need change flexibility, the bereavement fare is worth considering.
I’ve personally booked these fares for myself and assisted others during the worst moments of their lives. While it won’t erase the grief, it does remove some of the financial anxiety and last-minute booking stress.
If you’re facing this situation, don’t hesitate to call Delta and ask what’s available. Even if it isn’t cheaper, the emotional and logistical relief it offers can be invaluable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Delta still offer bereavement fares?
Yes, for SkyMiles members traveling due to the death or life-threatening illness of an immediate family member.
Can I book a bereavement fare online?
No. Bereavement fares must be booked by phone with Delta Reservations.
Are bereavement fares cheaper than regular fares?
Not always. They often cost more but include flexible change and cancellation terms.
Is proof of death or illness required?
Delta may request documentation such as a death certificate or hospital contact.
Are international bereavement fares available?
Yes, but additional documentation and verification may be needed.