American Airlines has become the latest airliner to drop bereavement fares for those unexpectedly needing to travel and be with their loved ones.
According to the Los Angeles Times, the airline is merging with US Airways and has said that it discontinued the fares as of Feb. 18 to be consistent with US Airways’ policy.
"We remain committed to doing all we can to relieve the burden of travel for our customers in times of need. With the advent of more choices, lower cost carriers and larger networks, the industry has started to move away from bereavement fares because walk-up fares are generally lower than in the past, and customers now have more opportunities to find affordable fares at the last minute," American Airlines spokesman Matt Miller said in a statement.
Bereavement fares are discounted fares intended for travelers that in the event of a death, may need to book a flight to get somewhere at the last minute.
The Associated Press noted that United and Delta Airlines are now the only carriers still offering the specially discounted flights.