The Age Delta Airlines Quietly Rewards Senior Travelers And What The Discounts Offer

Anyone 55 or older in the U.S. is often eligible for discounts at various stores, hotels, mobile phone plans, cruises, and restaurants. But did you know some airlines also offer senior travelers rewards and discounts? While Southwest Airlines currently dominates the charts for the cheapest flight deals overall, Delta Air Lines quietly extends select benefits to travelers aged 65 and older. The catch is these discounts aren't heavily advertised, clearly explained, or even easily processed online. Still, there are ways to access discounted travel if you know where — and how — to ask.

Delta's senior discounts are typically available only by contacting the airline's reservations team via phone. Even then, availability varies by route and market, and discounts may not be offered on every flight. While Delta doesn't entirely rule out finding senior fares online, the carrier recommends contacting its reservations team for the best chance of securing one. You'll need to confirm your flight details — route, travel dates, and preferred airports — and verify your age with government-issued identification, such as a driver's license or passport.

Flexibility can also pay off, as agents may be able to flag better fares on less popular travel dates. Senior discounts typically range from 5% to 15%, appearing more often on domestic routes within the continental U.S. than on international flights. However, it's always worth checking with an agent even if you're flying one of Delta's international routes — you never know what's available.

Your savings with Delta's discounted senior travel depend on numerous factors. As mentioned, your flight route is important, but the time of year and how far you book in advance also affect how likely you are to get a discount. Book well ahead of time if you want the best senior discount rates possible. According to Seniors Discount Club, booking 14 weeks or longer before your intended travel can help you secure the best savings on domestic flights. However, this can vary depending on the route, season, and demand. For international travel, the best time to buy tickets for the cheapest price is as early as possible.

When it comes to timing, you're more likely to get a significant discount if you book flights during the off-season for your destination. Weekday fares are also a good option, and it always pays to be flexible with your dates. You could also try calling Delta Airlines on a Tuesday, as this is still considered the best day to book your flight for cheaper travel.

There are also ways to increase your savings when booking discounted senior travel. If you're a SkyMiles member, definitely mention it, as you could save a little more. Sometimes, you can also get a senior's discount on top of Delta's seasonal or destination sales, but it may be better to navigate this with an actual agent instead of trying to do it online yourself. Delta isn't the only airline in America offering these discounted fares. American Airlines and United Airlines also offer cheaper flights for senior travelers. Other airlines, such as Frontier, sometimes have temporary promotions as well. So if you're not satisfied with the rate you're getting from Delta, you could look elsewhere and compare. Be sure to call, as the rates aren't always easy to find.