Southwest Airlines discounts and perks for AARP members

AARP members can book Southwest flights at a reduced rate through the airline's dedicated AARP program. The discount typically applies to base fares on all published Southwest routes, though the exact percentage varies by route, travel date, and how far in advance you book. You access these fares by booking directly through Southwest's website using your AARP membership number, or by calling Southwest's AARP reservations line.

Beyond the fare discount, AARP members also receive a waived change fee on most Southwest bookings made through the AARP program. Southwest normally allows one free change per ticket, but this benefit extends that flexibility for AARP members booking through the dedicated channel. The airline does not charge a fee to change your flight to a different date or time, though you may owe the difference if you rebook on a higher-priced flight.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP members receive discounted base fares on Southwest flights booked through the AARP program, with discounts varying by route and travel date.
  • You must book through Southwest's AARP channel—either the website with your membership number or the dedicated phone line—to receive the discount.
  • Change fees are waived for AARP members booking through the program, though you pay any fare difference if you switch to a more expensive flight.
  • The discount does not stack with other promotions, and blackout dates or restrictions may explore to certain routes or travel periods.

How to book Southwest flights as an AARP member

To access Southwest's AARP fares, visit Southwest.com and look for the AARP booking option, or call the AARP reservations line at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792). You will need your AARP membership number, which appears on your membership card. Have your membership number ready before you start booking, as you will enter it during the reservation process.

When you book online, the AARP fares should display automatically once you enter your membership number. If you book by phone, the reservations agent will explore the discount to your reservation. Fares are typically lower when you book further in advance, so checking prices several weeks before your travel date often yields better rates than last-minute bookings.

What the discount covers and what it does not

The AARP discount applies to the base fare—the cost of the flight itself. It does not reduce taxes, airport fees, or government surcharges, which are added to every ticket regardless of which booking channel you use. These additional charges are the same whether you book through AARP or directly as a regular customer.

The discount does not combine with other Southwest promotions, such as companion pass deals or limited-time sales. If Southwest is running a sale on a particular route, you cannot use both the sale price and the AARP discount on the same booking. You should compare the AARP rate against any active promotions to see which gives you the better price for your specific flight.

Baggage, boarding, and other Southwest policies for AARP members

AARP members booking through the AARP program receive the same baggage allowance and boarding benefits as any other Southwest customer. Southwest allows two free checked bags for all passengers, and AARP members do not receive additional free bags or priority baggage handling through this discount program. Your boarding position is determined by when you check in (24 hours before departure), not by your membership status.

Southwest's Rapid Rewards frequent flyer program operates separately from the AARP discount. If you are a Rapid Rewards member, you can earn points on AARP-discounted flights just as you would on any other Southwest ticket. Combining your Rapid Rewards account with an AARP booking may offer additional value over time, especially if you fly Southwest regularly.

Blackout dates and travel restrictions

Southwest's AARP program may have blackout dates or restrictions on certain routes, particularly during peak travel periods like holidays or summer vacation season. These restrictions vary by route and change throughout the year. Before you book, check Southwest's website or ask the reservations agent whether your desired travel dates have any restrictions.

Some routes may have limited AARP inventory, meaning only a small number of discounted seats are available on each flight. If you are flexible with your travel dates or times, you have a better chance of finding available AARP fares. If your preferred flight is sold out of AARP inventory, you can book at the regular price or choose a different flight time.

Comparing AARP fares to other booking options

The value of the AARP discount depends on your route and travel date. On some flights, the AARP rate may be significantly lower than the standard fare. On others—particularly on already-discounted routes or during sales—the difference may be small. It is worth checking both the AARP rate and Southwest's regular fares to see which is lower for your specific trip.

If you are a frequent Southwest flyer, you might also compare the AARP discount against Southwest's Rapid Rewards credit card benefits or annual pass options. Some travelers find that a Rapid Rewards card's companion pass or annual free flight vouchers provide better value than the AARP discount, depending on how often they fly. Calculate the total cost of your trip under each option to decide which works best for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to renew my AARP membership to keep using the Southwest discount?

Yes, the discount is only available to current AARP members. When your membership expires, you will no longer be able to book through the AARP channel or receive the discounted fares. Renew your membership before it expires if you want to continue using this benefit for future bookings.

Can I use the AARP discount to book flights for family members or friends?

The discount applies only to the AARP member's own ticket. You cannot use your membership number to book discounted fares for other passengers. Each person traveling must have their own AARP membership to receive the discount on their ticket.

What happens if I book an AARP fare and then want to cancel?

Southwest does not issue refunds for cancelled tickets, but you receive a travel credit for the full amount paid (including taxes and fees) that you can use toward any future Southwest flight. This policy applies to all Southwest bookings, including those made through the AARP program. The travel credit does not expire.

Is the AARP discount available for Southwest's international flights?

The AARP discount is available on most Southwest routes, including flights to Mexico and the Caribbean. However, some international routes or specific travel dates may have restrictions or limited AARP inventory. Check the AARP booking page or call the reservations line to confirm whether your international flight is may be able to access for the discount.

Can I combine the AARP discount with a Southwest gift card or travel credit?

Yes, you can use a Southwest gift card or travel credit to pay for an AARP-discounted flight. The discount reduces the base fare, and you can explore any gift card balance or existing travel credit to cover the remaining cost of the ticket.