alaska airlines companion

Alaska Airlines Companion Fare: Everything You Need to Know

Alaska Airlines offers a popular benefit for frequent flyers known as the Companion Fare. This program allows members to purchase a ticket for a companion at a significant discount when booking a flight. Whether you are planning a vacation or a business trip, this benefit can make your travel experience much more affordable. In this article, we will explore how the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare works, how to qualify for it, the benefits it offers, and tips on how to maximize this program.

What is the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare?

The Alaska Airlines Companion Fare is a special offer available to members of the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan program. This benefit allows you to buy a ticket for a companion at a greatly reduced price, often as low as $99 (plus taxes and fees). To qualify for the Companion Fare, you must book a flight using an eligible Alaska Airlines credit card, such as the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® card.

This offer is available for both one-way and round-trip flights, and you can choose any route that Alaska Airlines flies. The best part is that the Companion Fare can be used on both domestic and international flights, making it an attractive option for anyone looking to save on travel costs.

How to Qualify for the Companion Fare

To qualify for the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare, you need to meet the following criteria:

1. Hold an Eligible Alaska Airlines Credit Card: The Companion Fare benefit is typically available to holders of the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® card. Once you’ve received your card, you’ll get a Companion Fare certificate each year, usually after your first purchase.

2. Book with the Eligible Credit Card: You must use your Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® card to book your flight. The Companion Fare will be applied to your flight booking once you meet the requirements.

3. Choose Your Travel Dates and Destination: The Companion Fare can be used on a wide variety of routes, including both domestic and international flights. However, there are some blackout dates and restrictions, especially during peak travel periods such as holidays and summer months.

How to Use the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare

Once you qualify for the Companion Fare, using it is a straightforward process. Here’s how to make the most of this benefit:

1. Booking Your Flight: When booking a flight on Alaska Airlines, log in to your Mileage Plan account and select your flight as you normally would. During the booking process, you will be prompted to apply your Companion Fare certificate.

2. Add a Companion: After applying the certificate, you will be able to choose a companion to travel with you. The companion ticket will typically cost just $99 (plus taxes and fees), even if the main ticket is much more expensive. This is a great way to save on travel costs when flying with a friend or family member.

3. Travel Restrictions: Be aware that the Companion Fare cannot be used on certain flights or during peak travel periods. Some routes, such as flights operated by partners of Alaska Airlines, may not be eligible for the discount. However, the program offers flexibility for most of Alaska Airlines’ routes.

Benefits of the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare

The Companion Fare offers numerous benefits that can make it a valuable tool for frequent travelers:

1. Cost Savings: The most obvious benefit is the ability to save money. Paying just $99 for a second ticket (plus taxes and fees) can result in significant savings, especially for families or couples.

2. Flexibility: The Alaska Airlines Companion Fare can be applied to both domestic and international flights, offering a wide range of options for travelers. You can use it for weekend getaways, business trips, or international vacations.

3. No Limit on Number of Uses: While the Companion Fare can only be used once per year, there is no limit to how many times you can use it for different flights within that year. As long as you have a valid certificate, you can continue to take advantage of the discount for multiple trips.

4. Family and Group Travel: This program is particularly beneficial for families or groups traveling together, as the second ticket is often heavily discounted. For example, a family of four can save hundreds of dollars on flights to popular destinations.

Important Terms and Conditions of the Companion Fare

Like any promotional program, there are several terms and conditions associated with the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare that travelers should be aware of:

1. Valid Only on Eligible Flights: The Companion Fare is valid only on specific routes operated by Alaska Airlines and does not apply to all flights. Certain blackout dates may also apply, especially during the holidays and high-demand travel seasons.

2. Limited to One Companion Per Year: The Companion Fare can be used only once per year for cardholders. If you have multiple eligible credit cards, each cardholder may receive one Companion Fare per year.

3. Taxes and Fees: While the Companion Fare itself is discounted, you will still need to pay taxes and fees for both the primary ticket and the companion ticket. These charges can vary depending on the route and destination.

4. Cannot Be Combined with Other Offers: The Companion Fare cannot be combined with other discounts or promotional offers. However, it can be used in conjunction with other benefits, such as earning Mileage Plan miles for your flights.

Maximizing the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare

To get the most out of your Alaska Airlines Companion Fare, consider these tips:

1. Plan in Advance: Booking your flights early can increase your chances of getting the best seat selection and taking advantage of less expensive fare options before prices rise.

2. Travel During Off-Peak Times: Avoiding peak travel seasons like summer, holidays, and school breaks can help you save even more money. Flights during these times tend to be more expensive, so using your Companion Fare on off-peak flights can make the most of the discount.

3. Use Your Companion Fare for Group Travel: If you’re traveling with a group, consider using your Companion Fare for one person in the group to maximize savings. This is especially helpful for larger families.

Conclusion

The Alaska Airlines Companion Fare is a valuable perk for anyone who frequently flies with the airline. By holding an eligible credit card, you can save hundreds of dollars on your travel by booking a companion ticket at a discounted rate. With its flexibility, cost savings, and ease of use, the Companion Fare can significantly enhance your travel experience, making it more affordable for families, couples, and groups. Keep in mind the terms and conditions, and use the benefit wisely to make the most of your travels with Alaska Airlines.