That’s a fun and intriguing request! While airlines don’t intentionally “hide” benefits (they are typically available in the fine print or accessible upon request), they often don’t advertise them aggressively. Knowing these perks and asking politely can significantly improve the travel experience for people over 70.

Here are 11 benefits and tips often cited as “secrets” that senior travelers can leverage:

1. Hidden Senior Discounts and Fares

Many major US and international carriers still offer senior fares for passengers typically aged 65 or 62 and over, though they are often not advertised on the main booking page.

• The Secret: These fares may not always be the absolute cheapest (compared to a flash sale), but they can be more flexible or provide savings on routes where cheaper promotional fares aren’t available.
• How to Get It: When booking online, select “Senior (65+)” from the passenger drop-down menu. If a discounted fare exists for that route, it will appear. If not, call the airline directly and specifically ask for the “Senior Fare” or “Senior Discount” for your flight.

2. TSA Pre-Check-Style Exemption (Age 75+)

In the U.S., the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) offers special accommodations for travelers aged 75 and older.

• The Secret: Travelers 75 and older can often keep their shoes and light jackets on during the security screening process, similar to TSA Pre-Check passengers, speeding up the process and minimizing stress.
• How to Get It: Simply inform the TSA agent of your age.

3. Free Wheelchair/Assistance Service (Even for Mobility Issues)

This service is crucial for those with limited mobility, but it is also a powerful tool for streamlining the airport experience.

• The Secret: Requesting wheelchair service guarantees early boarding, fast-tracking through security, and an escort directly to your gate, making long connections much easier. You do not have to be permanently disabled to qualify; temporary or intermittent mobility issues (like difficulty walking long distances) are sufficient.
• How to Get It: Request assistance when booking and call the airline at least 48 hours before your flight to confirm. Tipping the attendant is customary.

4. Priority Boarding Without an Upgrade Fee

Seniors who require extra time to board and get settled are often eligible for early or pre-boarding.

• The Secret: If you request special assistance (such as a wheelchair) or if you simply politey inform the gate agent that you need extra time to get seated and stow your luggage, you will often be called to board before the main groups.
• How to Get It: Check in with the gate agent upon arrival and mention your need for “extra time to get settled.”

5. Priority Rebooking During Delays or Cancellations

When a flight is delayed or canceled, chaos ensues, but your age can sometimes move you to the front of the rebooking queue.

• The Secret: While not official policy, gate agents and customer service staff are often instructed to prioritize assistance for passengers who are elderly, families with small children, or those needing medical assistance.
• How to Get It: Approach the counter calmly and politely and explain the urgent nature of your need for rebooking, which may include connecting flights or medication schedules.

6. Free Medical Equipment Baggage Allowance

Necessary medical devices typically do not count against your standard baggage allowance.

• The Secret: Items like Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs), walkers, canes, or crutches are generally allowed in the cabin or checked for free, in addition to your carry-on and checked bags.
• How to Get It: Notify the airline in advance about any medical equipment you are bringing.

7. The Gate Pass for Escorts

If you are traveling alone but have a family member or friend dropping you off, they can often accompany you past security.

• The Secret: A family member can request a Gate Pass at the airline’s ticket counter to escort you all the way to your departure gate, helping with bags and ensuring you are settled before they leave.
• How to Get It: The escort must present their photo ID at the check-in counter and request a “Gate Pass to assist a passenger.”

8. Better Seat Selection (Asking Nicely Works)

Seniors often prefer seats near the lavatories or with extra legroom for comfort.

• The Secret: While exit row seats are restricted, politely asking the gate agent or flight attendant for an aisle seat near the front (for quick deplaning/lavatory access) or an available bulkhead seat can often result in a free seat change, especially if the flight isn’t full.

9. Flexible Medical-Diet Meal Options

On long-haul international flights, you can pre-order meals tailored to dietary restrictions.

• The Secret: You can request low-sodium, diabetic-friendly, or low-fat meals when booking, which are usually served before the general meal service, providing both health benefits and priority service.
• How to Get It: Request the specific meal type (e.g., “Diabetic Meal”) in the special services section of your booking, or call the airline at least 48-72 hours before departure.

10. AARP and Loyalty Program Discounts

Membership in organizations like the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) often unlocks guaranteed airline perks.

• The Secret: AARP members can access exclusive discounts with certain international airlines (like British Airways or Delta on certain routes) and discounts on related travel costs like car rentals and hotels.
• How to Get It: Check the partnership section on the AARP website and use the dedicated booking link they provide.

11. TSA Cares Helpline

This program is dedicated to helping travelers with disabilities or medical conditions navigate security.

• The Secret: You can call the dedicated TSA Cares helpline (72 hours in advance) to request assistance, and they can arrange for a Passenger Support Specialist to guide you through security and answer questions at the airport.
• How to Get It: Call the TSA Cares helpline before your travel date.