Losing a loved one is never easy, and making last-minute travel arrangements can add additional stress during an already difficult time. While many airlines no longer offer traditional bereavement fares, some continue to provide compassionate travel programs, flexible ticket options, or assistance for families traveling because of a death or imminent death.
Airline policies, eligibility requirements, and available fares can change at any time. We recommend contacting the airline directly before booking your travel to determine the options currently available.
JetBlue Airways
JetBlue Airways does not currently offer a published bereavement fare or discount program. However, if you need to travel due to the death or serious illness of an immediate family member, it is still worth contacting JetBlue before making your reservation.
A JetBlue representative may be able to:
Help you find the lowest available fare
Explain refundable or flexible ticket options
Discuss change or cancellation policies
Assist with an existing reservation affected by a family emergency
For more information, visit JetBlue Airways.
Delta Air Lines
Delta offers bereavement fares for eligible SkyMiles® members traveling because of the death of an immediate family member. These fares must be booked by contacting Delta Reservations and are not available online.
Travelers may be asked to provide:
The name of the deceased
Their relationship to the deceased
The name and phone number of the funeral home, hospital, or hospice
Additional documentation if requested
Bereavement fares may provide greater flexibility, but they are not always the lowest available fare. Compare all available fare options before booking.
Learn more at Delta Bereavement Travel Information.
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines offers a bereavement discount for eligible travelers when travel is required within seven days of the death of an immediate family member.
Reservations must be made by contacting Alaska Airlines directly. Eligibility requirements and restrictions apply.
Learn more at Alaska Airlines Bereavement Fare Information.
Air Canada
Air Canada offers bereavement fares on select itineraries for travel related to the death or imminent death of an immediate family member.
Reservations must be made by telephone before travel. Supporting documentation, such as a death certificate, funeral director’s statement, coroner’s statement, or physician’s letter, may be required after travel.
Learn more at Air Canada Bereavement Fare Information.
Other Airlines
Many major airlines, including American Airlines, United Airlines and Southwest Airlines, no longer offer published bereavement fares.
Even if an airline does not advertise a bereavement program, it is still worthwhile to contact the airline directly. Customer service representatives may be able to help with:
Flexible or refundable fare options
Lower available fares
Reduced change or cancellation fees
Assistance with existing reservations affected by a family emergency
Travel credits or refund options when applicable
Before You Call the Airline
Having the following information available may help speed the reservation process:
Full name of the deceased or critically ill person
Your relationship to that person
Name and phone number of the funeral home, hospital, or hospice
Funeral or memorial service date
Your expected travel dates
Any documentation requested by the airline
We Are Here to Help
If Star of David Memorial Chapels is handling your loved one’s arrangements, we can provide funeral information or documentation that may be requested by an airline.
If you have questions or need assistance, please contact us at (631) 454-9600. Our caring staff is available to help guide you during this difficult time.
Unable to Attend the Funeral?
If travel is not possible, ask our staff about available options for remote participation in funeral services when available. We will do our best to help family and friends remain connected during this important time.
Important Notice
Airline policies, eligibility requirements, documentation requirements, and available fares are subject to change without notice. Always verify current information directly with the airline before making travel arrangements.
On behalf of everyone at Star of David Memorial Chapels, we extend our deepest condolences to you and your family.