• 14 May, 2026
  • Travel tips

What is United Airlines senior discount policy?

When taking your grandparents or any elderly person on a flight, it requires a lot of care and planning. It starts with booking flights for them. Many airlines offer special treatments to their elderly passengers, including discounted fares, special greetings during boarding, complimentary services, and more. One such carrier is United Airlines, which loves serving such aged travelers. United Airlines has a special program for senior citizens that allows them to receive an additional discount on flight bookings. On this page, you will learn comprehensive details about the rules associated with the United Airlines senior discount and how you can book it. The sections below also outline additional tips for a more practical and cost-effective booking and travel experience with United Airlines. 

United Airlines Senior Discount Policy 

Before you book flight tickets for a senior passenger, it is vital to read and understand United Airlines' senior discount policy so you know your eligibility and how to claim it. You can read the entire senior discount policy by visiting United Airlines' official senior traveler page. Below are some of the major highlights of the United Airlines senior discount policy, stated for your reference:

  • The senior citizen discount applies only to eligible individuals. Per the senior discount eligibility criteria, the benefit holder must be 65 or older. 
  • A senior citizen card may be required for verification at the time of booking and boarding. The senior discount applies to flights booked through United Airlines' official platforms.
  • If the flight ticket is booked through a third-party travel agency, the perks that come with senior discount fares may not be included. 
  • The senior discount applies only to select fares and routes on both domestic and international flights.
  • According to United Airlines' senior discount policy, passengers must see the "Senior (65+)" option at the time of booking to receive the discount.
  • Fares and routes may vary, so before booking a flight, it is important to check whether your flight qualifies for the senior discount. 
  • Passengers who fail to verify their status as senior citizens may not receive the fare discount and, in certain circumstances, may have their boarding restricted.
  • United Airlines' senior discount also applies to those aged 55+ who are members of the airline's Silver Wings Plus frequent flyer program. However, United Airlines is not accepting further registrations, but discounts are still available for existing members. 

Perks for Senior Travelers on United Airlines

Apart from the flight discount, there are several perks for senior travelers on United Airlines. If you are planning your trip for a senior citizen with United Airlines, here are some popular perks that can enhance their flight experience, which are as follows: 

  • Accessibility: You can check a wheelchair, scooter, or walker at the gate without paying any extra charges. 
  • Oxygen: You can travel with a portable oxygen concentrator for free as long as it adheres to the FAA guidelines.
  • Service animal: Take up to 2 eligible service dogs with you at no additional fee. 
  • Disability: Senior travelers with disabilities can receive personal assistance. 

How to get a discount on a United Airlines flight for seniors?

If you are seeking a senior discount on United Airlines, you can get it while booking your flights through its official channels. Typically, the best time to book United Airlines flights for seniors is when the senior discount offer is active. You can go to the United Airlines discount page to see if it's available, and if so, here is how you can secure it by following the steps:

  • Go to united.com and log in with your account.
  • Enter your trip details and search for the flight.
  • If you have a senior discount promo code, use it before clicking the flight search button.
  • Discounts will be applied to all the flights. 
  • Simply pick the one that suits you best and complete your flight booking. 

Additional tips to consider when booking flights for senior citizens

Whether planning to fly with a senior citizen or you are one of them, here are some helpful tips that you must keep in mind before leaving your home. It features: 

  • Senior citizens generally board the plane first, so they arrive at the airport well in advance.
  • Being a senior passenger, you must carry all your medical documents and medications handy. 
  • Finish online flight check-in through the United Airlines mobile app and get a digital boarding pass. 
  • In case of a drop-off at the airport gate, you should seek help from the terminal guide.
  • Ensure to wear loose clothes and compression socks on the day of departure. 
  • When booking a flight ticket, check whether a senior discount is available.
  • It is also beneficial for the senior to have a MileagePlus membership at the time of booking flights. 
  • Mention passenger details accurately, as per the ID and passport, to avoid inconvenience. 
  • United Airlines offers a concierge service called United Signature Services if you require assistance at the airport. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q1. Who is eligible for the United Airlines senior traveler discount?

Ans: Any passenger aged 65 or older is eligible for the senior traveler discount on United Airlines. Refer to the United Airlines senior traveler page to know more about eligibility criteria.

Q2. How much discount does United Airlines offer to its senior passengers?

Ans: United Airlines offers a flat discount of up to 15% for eligible senior citizens flying on short- or long-haul trips. 

Q3. Is a wheelchair included with the United Airlines fares?

Ans: Yes, if you are a senior traveler or a passenger with a disability, you can request it at the gate for free when departing on a United Airlines flight. 

Q4. Is service animal allowed on United Airlines for senior citizens?

Ans: Yes, United Airlines allows its senior passengers to fly with up to 2 service dogs without any additional charges. 

Q5: How can I make a United Airlines flight affordable for my grandfather?

Ans: While booking a flight for your grandfather on United Airlines, if they are aged 65 or older, you can claim the senior traveler discount on most routes.