A companion fare is a promotional certificate that allows a second passenger to travel on the same itinerary as the primary ticket holder for a significantly reduced cost, often just taxes and fees.
What Is a Companion Fare / Certificate?
A companion fare (or companion certificate) is a promotional benefit that lets a second passenger travel on the same flight itinerary as the primary ticket holder for a steeply reduced price, sometimes as low as the cost of taxes and fees alone. It is typically earned through a co-branded airline credit card, issued as an annual perk, or offered as a limited-time marketing promotion.
Airlines and card issuers use companion fares to drive loyalty program signups and credit card retention rather than to sell seats directly. The primary passenger must usually book a qualifying fare class, and the companion is added to the same reservation, subject to availability and blackout restrictions.
How It Works
Companion certificates are commonly attached to premium co-branded credit cards, often requiring a minimum annual spend (frequently $1,000–$25,000 depending on the card) to unlock or renew the benefit each cardmember year. The primary traveler pays full fare in a qualifying class, while the companion pays only government-imposed taxes and carrier fees, typically $30–$120 domestically. Restrictions commonly include a set booking window, exclusion of peak travel dates, and a requirement that both passengers travel on identical dates and flights.
Where to Find It
Companion fares are most commonly tied to airline co-branded credit cards rather than offered as standalone fare products. They appear across major U.S. network carriers' loyalty and card programs, as well as some international carriers' cardholder benefits. Terms, pricing, and eligible fare classes vary by issuer and change periodically, so travelers should verify current terms directly with the card issuer or airline before booking.
Traveler Tip
Before booking, confirm the certificate's blackout dates, required fare class, and expiration — many companion fares expire annually and cannot be extended. CEOFLIGHTS specialists can help find discounted fares — call (888) 851-6897.
