What is negotiated fare?

Negotiated fare refers to an airfare that is agreed upon between an airline and a customer or a group of customers, typically for large group bookings or for specific travel conditions or requirements. It involves direct negotiation between the airline and the customer or their representative, rather than following the standard published fares. Airlines may offer negotiated fares to attract large groups, such as corporate travelers or tour operators, or for special situations, such as military or government travel, sports teams, or other organized groups.

In negotiated fare arrangements, the airline and the customer discuss and agree on the fare, which can differ from the publicly available fares and may include additional services, amenities, or baggage allowances. Negotiated fares can provide flexibility in terms of flight schedules, routes, and other travel arrangements, and they may offer cost savings or other advantages for the customer based on their specific needs and requirements.

Airlines typically have a dedicated team or department that handles negotiated fare requests and works with customers to tailor fare packages that meet their specific requirements. To obtain a negotiated fare, customers or their representatives usually contact the airline directly and provide details about the travel group size, travel dates, destinations, and any special requests. The airline evaluates these factors and proposes a fare that aligns with the customer's needs and the airline's business objectives.

It is important to note that negotiated fares are not always universally available and are subject to the availability of seats and the airline's policies. Airlines may also impose certain terms and conditions on negotiated fares, such as advance booking requirements, minimum group size, blackout dates, or restrictions on cancellations or changes. Therefore, it is essential for customers to carefully understand the terms and conditions of negotiated fares before committing to a booking to ensure that they align with their travel plans and expectations.