Military airline benefits — free Space-A flights, waived bag fees on United, Delta, American, Alaska, and military fares on JetBlue and Southwest.
Space-A: the free flight benefit
The biggest airline benefit isn't a discount — it's free. Space-Available (Space-A) travel lets active duty, retirees, and in some cases dependents fly on military aircraft at no cost when seats are open. It takes flexibility and patience, but a Space-A hop to Europe or the Pacific can save a fortune over a commercial ticket.
Bag fees and military fares
On commercial carriers, the most reliable benefit is waived checked-bag fees for active duty — United, Delta, American, Alaska, and Hawaiian Airlines all waive bags for service members traveling on orders, and several waive them for personal travel too. JetBlue and Southwest run military-specific fares and support programs as well.
Know the rules before you fly
Bag-fee waivers often hinge on whether you're on orders versus personal travel, and the number of free bags varies by airline. Each listing below shows what's covered and the eligibility — check your airline's military policy before you get to the counter.
12 verified airlines discounts
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Alaska Airlines
MILITARY RATE
✓ Active Duty
Free checked bags for active duty on personal travel. Mileage Plan (one of best US loyalty programs). Partn…
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Allegiant Air
MILITARY RATE
✓ Active (varies)
Military fare sometimes available on select routes. Ultra-low-cost but with military baggage allowances at …
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American Airlines
DISCOUNT AVAILABLE
✓ Active Duty
Free checked bags for active duty (varies by status). AAdvantage miles. Military fares occasionally availab…
A
Avelo Airlines
FREE BAGS + PRIORITY BOARDING
✓ Active-duty military members traveling on official or personal trips with valid military ID
Avelo Airlines offers active-duty military members one free carry-on and up to two free checked bags (max 7…
