Military Retired Airline Discounts: A Great Perk for Those Who Served
- Delta Force Transport News
- Nov 17
- 5 min read
At Delta Force Transport & Logistics we understand the value of honoring those who have served in the military. One of the many perks available to retired military personnel is the opportunity to access airline discounts. These discounts can make travel more affordable, whether you're visiting family, attending a reunion, or just enjoying some well-deserved leisure time.
Military personnel dedicate their lives to serving our country, often making great personal sacrifices. As a way of showing appreciation for their service, many airlines offer discounted fares to retired military members. These discounts are not only a thank-you for their commitment but also a way to ensure that military retirees can enjoy travel without breaking the bank.
How to Access Military Retired Airline Discounts?
Check Airline Websites: Many major airlines offer special discounts for military retirees. It's important to visit the airline’s official website and search for any military or veteran offers. Some airlines require a special discount code, while others provide reduced fares directly on their booking pages.
Join Military Discount Programs: Some airlines have dedicated programs for veterans, retirees, and active-duty personnel. These programs offer perks like priority boarding, discounted flights, and more. It’s worth checking with the airline to see if they have a program specifically for retired military members.
Provide Documentation: Be prepared to show proof of military retirement when booking your flight. This can include a retirement ID card, DD-214 form, or any other official documentation proving your military status. Some airlines may require this proof at check-in as well.
American Airlines: Known for offering discounts for military personnel, American Airlines frequently extends these benefits to retirees. They also provide discounted baggage fees and additional benefits for veterans.
Delta Airlines: Delta offers competitive military discounts, including for retired military members. You can also take advantage of priority boarding and other travel benefits.
United Airlines: United provides special fares and benefits for retired military members, including discounts on checked bags and early boarding privileges.
Southwest Airlines: While they don’t offer traditional discounted fares for retired military, Southwest’s flexible cancellation policy and free checked bags make it a popular choice among military retirees.
American Forces Travel
What airlines offer military discount?
Military Discount
Maximizing Your Military Discounts
To make the most of your military discount, it's helpful to compare deals from different airlines. While one airline may offer a deeper discount on tickets, another might provide better perks, such as more generous luggage allowances or priority boarding. Taking the time to research your options ensures that you're getting the best value for your money.
Military Travel Benefits by Airline
As a retired military member, you deserve to enjoy the perks that come with your service. Airline discounts are just one of the many ways that you can save on travel and continue to explore the world without breaking the bank. At Delta Force Transport & Logistics, we appreciate your service and encourage you to take advantage of these benefits whenever you can. Safe travels!
Airline | Flight Ticket Discount | How to Claim Discount | Free Baggage Allowance | Eligibility |
No | Not available | 3 free checked bags | Active & retired military | |
No | Not available | 2 bags (leisure), 5 bags (on orders) | Active military only | |
5%* + exclusive fares | WeSalute+ members or call 1-800-252-7522 | 5 free bags | Active military only | |
No | Not available | 2 free bags | Active & retired military | |
No | Not available | 2 free bags | Active military only | |
Up to $300 off (through Delta Vacations) | Call 1-800-800-1504 | 2 bags (leisure), 5 bags (on orders) | Active military only | |
No | Not available | 2 free bags | Active military only | |
5%* | WeSalute+ members | 2 bags (leisure), 5 bags (on orders) | Active military (leisure); active & retired (orders) | |
5%* | WeSalute+ members | 2 bags (leisure), 5 bags (on orders) | Active military only | |
5%* | WeSalute+ members | Free extra checked baggage on orders | Active military only | |
5%* | WeSalute+ members | None | Active & retired military | |
Exclusive military fares | Call 1-800-435-9792 or visit a ticket counter | 2 free bags; no fees for additional checked bags | Active military only | |
No | Not available | 2 bags + 1 free carry-on | Active military only | |
Call for details | WeSalute+ or call 1-800-433-7300 | 3 bags (leisure), 5 bags (on orders) | Active military only |
1. Do all airlines offer military discounts on tickets?No. Some airlines offer only baggage perks instead of fare discounts. Others may require third-party memberships (like WeSalute+) to access discounted ticket prices.
2. Do veterans and retired military get the same discounts as active duty?It depends on the airline. Some benefits, like free checked bags, are available to veterans and retirees. Perks tied to official orders (e.g., multiple 100 lb. bags) usually apply only to active duty members traveling on duty.
3. Do I need to book directly with the airline to get a military discount?Often, yes. Many airlines require booking through their reservation line or ticket counter. Some allow online bookings if you verify through ID.me or log in with a WeSalute+ account.
4. Are military discounts available on international flights?Sometimes. Discounts and generous baggage allowances are more common when traveling on official orders or PCS moves. Always check with the airline in advance.
5. What if my discount isn’t honored at check-in?Bring documentation such as military ID, travel orders, or confirmation emails. If needed, ask for a supervisor or refer staff to the airline’s military discount policy.
6. Do any travel credit cards waive fees for military members?Yes. Some travel credit cards waive annual fees for active-duty service members under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) or Military Lending Act (MLA). Check the card issuer’s policy for details.
What proof do you need for a military discount?
Summary Table
Situation | Accepted Proof |
In-store | Military/VA ID, DD Form 214, State veteran ID, VA Healthcare Card |
Online | Verification via ID.me, SheerID, GovX ID with uploaded valid documents |
National Guard | NGB‑55 in lieu of DD 214 for honorable discharge |
If you lack ID | Use VA-issued VIC or digital verification services |
Major Hotel/Resort Chains with Military Discounts
Hotel/Resort | Who’s Eligible | Typical Discount / Perk | Notes |
IHG Hotels & Resorts | Active duty, veterans, retirees & their families (U.S., Canada) | A military rate that gives some % off the Best Flexible Rate. IHG | |
Active, reserve, veteran, retired military, and spouses | ~12% off “standard rate” at participating U.S. & Canadian properties. More off for some fares (e.g. Super 8). Wyndham Hotels & Resorts+2Military.com+2 | ||
Active duty (and sometimes others depending on location) | ~15% discount for active duty on flexible rates at many U.S., Caribbean, Mexico locations. WeSalute+1 | ||
Hyatt | Active duty, veterans, and their immediate family | 10‑15% off standard rates at participating hotels with code “MILVET”. The Points Guy+1 | |
Active duty, veterans, retirees & family | Military/Family rate (“Military Family Rate”) giving ~10% off, depending on property. MOAA+1 | ||
Active, reserve, veteran, etc. | ~12% off Best Available Rate with proper booking. MOAA+1 | ||
Westgate Resorts |
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