Southwest's senior fares are disappearing

Oct. 09, 2019

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2 min read

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A lesser-known benefit of flying Southwest is the discount it provides to those 65 and over. Selected when beginning a search, senior fares offer a discount on the "Anytime" fares that Southwest offers. This has previously meant that those purchasing the senior rate would get the same benefits as Anytime, including a full refund in the event of cancellation:

As of Dec. 11, 2019, the discount will no longer be available. While this may not have a huge impact for most, it is a blow to Southwest's notoriously generous fare program. Still, anyone looking to save money (no matter their age), can purchase a cheaper "Wanna Get Away" fare, which offers a deeply-discounted ticket that, in the event of cancellation, refunds to a travel credit valid for up to 12 months. And for those with kids, Southwest has confirmed that the child's fare (which you must call to book) is sticking around, at least for now.

Though it's too bad that Southwest is doing away with the senior fare, it still continues to include some of our favorite airline perks, like the Southwest Companion Pass and zero change fees.