Emergency Advice

In “Letters” (Feb 9), two writers noted what a sad time they’d found getting emergency plane fares when family deaths occurred.

The following may not be an always-viable panacea, but last-minute flight tickets booked through an agency such as Cheap Tickets Inc. have been a help to my boss--who has often decided at the last moment to have an associate join him on a business trip.

A caveat would be that major cities are better and more conveniently served. The writer who had to get into Washington, D.C., would fare better than someone trying to get to Cleveland or Fargo, N.D.

For a someone who qualifies as a senior, airline ticket coupon books can be purchased, making each one-way flight a set cost. For example, TWA, for a person 62 or over, sells four coupons at $498. Each coupon is for a one-way domestic flight. Delta has a similar program (as probably do other airlines).

Without proper advance time (such as when an emergency occurs), airlines may not accept reservations using the flight coupon. But my boss has found that a stand-by reservation has been available.

CAROL IMLAY

Van Nuys

Regarding “Coping With Sudden Death” (Jan. 26), if the bereaved is fortunate enough to have frequent flier miles saved up, they can be a godsend. Although claiming tickets or coupons usually takes several days, most airlines will overnight frequent-flier tickets for a reasonable fee ($50 to $75).

Also, if it is known that the death will occur within a few months (as is often the case with chronic or terminal illnesses), the relative/friend can redeem frequent-flier miles for a ticket, then simply hold it for when it is needed. A far-in-the-future departure date should be selected. The departure date can be changed when the ticket becomes necessary.

TOM OGDEN

Los Angeles

I recently had to arrange a flight overseas (to Greece) for my husband. My father-in-law passed away unexpectedly. Checking various airlines, I came up with just as many fares. The lowest round-trip quote was from Delta (at $675) and the highest from Lufthansa (more than $2,200!).

An agent from one of the airlines told me never to mention bereavement rates because airlines just give you a percentage off the full fare. Instead, ask for the lowest rate available.

By the way, I finally went through a travel agent who was able to get the lowest fare for me. He obviously didn’t ask for any bereavement rates. So, buyer beware!

SHELLY PAPADOPOULOS

Culver City