[WindsorDave]

Hi all,

I may have to fly back to the UK at short notice over the next couple of weeks since my grandmother is seriously ill. I have read in places about Compassionate tickets. Can anyone let me know if these exist and if so how to get hold of them. From a seperate thread on here I understand that Qantas don't do them anymore (surprise, surprise).

Thanks all
Dave

[Travel Guru]

Hi Dave,

Sorry to hear about your grandmother.

Unfortunately most airlines no longer offer them, the main reason being that airfares as so highly discounted these days that they're usually cheaper than the compassionate fares offered.

Your best bet is to speak with a reputable travel agent and check availability and pricing, though I do warn you, right now is not an easy time to find seats to UK/Europe, so i'd check asap.

I would recommend you don't tell the agent why you're travelling, as some agents (especially those are some larger chains who work on commission) will mark up fares if they know you're desperate, and check the fares before committing.

If you need any further advice, don't hesitate to ask.

All the best.

TG

[trooper]

Good advice...

The Bereavement/Emergency type fares where they still exist have attracted some pretty fiery complaints... as they are NOT cheaper than the cheapest Y tickets...

They do have flexibility that cheap fares don't however... while representing a saving on the normal cost of such flexibility.. IIRC!

[NM]

And do keep in mind that in these situations there can be lots of options available that may not normally come to mind. Be flexible with the choice of airline and routing and you may be able to find availability at short notice and not have to pay the really high fares.

So when talking to a reputable agent, let them know if you are willing to take a longer routing or use an airline other than the ones that first come to mind, such as MH, TG, JL, EK, BI, EY, and combinations including AF, LX, KL for the Asia-Europe part.

[WindsorDave]

Thanks all.