If you're thinking about transporting a group of friends and/or family members to a special destination to celebrate your wedding, then you need to know about saving money by applying for discount airfares.
Several airlines that I checked -- American, Northwest, US Airways, and Hawaiian -- all make provisions and discounts available to groups traveling together. The airfare savings aren't enormous; discounts of five or ten percent are typical. But they can add up. And the best part is, there are generally incentives to the bride and groom to bring the gang along.
Hawaiian Airlines, for example, will provide two first-class upgrades (one way) to couples who secure ten bookings with the carrier. It's called the Wedding Wings program.
American Airlines allows you to request a group wedding discount online or by calling a toll-free number (800-221-2255) that connects to its wedding services desk.
AirJamaica offers a group discount when 10 or more adults fly together and a first-class upgrade to couples when 20 or more friends and family fly.
Northwest Airlines bases its discounts on the published airfare. There must be ten or more guests traveling on Northwest/KLM to your wedding. Use the online form to get started.
What if our preferred airline doesn't offer a wedding discount?
Don't assume it's not available. (Keep in mind that by flying on a preferred carrier, you will build up mileage credits and be able to take a second honeymoon that much sooner.)
Investigate to see if your favorite airline offers group sales.
Delta, for instance, doesn't specify that romantics get a break...but does vaguely state on its site: "When your travel plans involve 10 or more passengers on the same flight, Delta Air Lines can easily accommodate your group needs." (To me that means, call up and negotiate.)
America West (which flies many marryin' couples in and out of Las Vegas) says: "For groups of 10 or more passengers on the same flight itinerary, you qualify for special pricing from America West Airlines Group & Specialty Travel."
United's Meetings Plus offers five percent off any published fare including United First or ten percent off full coach when ten "attendees" fly United to a "meeting".
What if it's just the two of us flying?
This is one case where it's better to book through a human travel agent or reservationist than online. Let him or her know that you're buying airline tickets for your honeymoon. The experts say there's no better way to get a free upgrade, when available.
Don't see your preferred airline? Check Official Airline Web Sites
