What is compassionate airfare?
Some airlines offer discounts or deferred payment for immediate family members who require a flight to attend a funeral (each airline’s definition of “immediate family” varies). Check with individual airlines for a list of who qualifies, and procedures for applying for the discount before you book your flight. Some airlines take information verbally; others require the full fare be paid and a refund applied for after the funeral service. Be prepared to provide information about the deceased, and the name and phone number of the funeral home, if the airline wants to contact them for confirmation. You may also have to provide a copy of the ticket, boarding pass, the Funeral Director’s Statement of Death, and a short note regarding your relationship to the deceased. Air Canada has a “Bereavement Fare” that offers up to a 75% discount on all “full price” tickets for family members who have booked a “return flight” to attend a funeral. If you have paid full fare at the time of the funeral,
