Southwest Airlines extends special fares to military personnel and government employees. These fares offer potential cost savings, but they are subject to specific eligibility requirements and booking procedures.
Military Fares Explained
Military fares are designed for active-duty members of the United States Armed Forces, including reservists, National Guard members, and Coast Guard members with active orders. Cadets and midshipmen attending U.S. service academies (Air Force Academy, Naval Academy, Military Academy [West Point], and Coast Guard Academy) also qualify. Authorized dependents of these service members are eligible as well.
Military dependents between the ages of two and eleven must travel with a military customer or a military-dependent customer who is at least 12 years old. Upon check-in, all customers using military fares must present a valid United States Armed Forces identification card. Military dependents aged 12 or older must show a card proving their active-duty military dependent status.
How to Book Military Fares
Military fares are not available online at Southwest.com. To book a military fare, individuals must call 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792) or visit a Southwest Airlines ticket counter. It’s important to note that Rapid Rewards points cannot be used to purchase Government and Military fares.
Government Fares: Federal and State
Southwest Airlines also offers government fares to eligible federal and state government personnel. These fares are categorized into Federal Government (GVT) and State Government (GST) fares, each with specific booking channels.
Federal Government (GVT) fares cannot be purchased on Southwest.com. They are exclusively available through an eligible federal government personnel’s authorized travel management system, travel agency, commercial travel office, or by contacting the Southwest Government Reservation Desk at 1-888-871-8167. Eligible personnel are advised to use their agency’s preferred booking method.
Similar to federal fares, State Government (GST) fares are not available on Southwest.com. These fares can be booked through an eligible state government personnel’s authorized travel agency or via the Southwest Government Reservation Desk at 1-888-871-8167. State government employees should utilize their agency’s designated booking channel for ticket purchases.
Key Takeaways
Southwest Airlines provides discounted fares to military personnel and government employees. Military fares are accessible by phone or at ticket counters, while government fares are typically booked through authorized travel channels. Remember to carry valid identification for verification at check-in. Understanding these procedures can help eligible travelers take advantage of potential savings.
