Airline Gift Cards | Tickets, & Taxes. Rules and Tips
Airline Gift Cards?
The process is almost identical across major airlines. You will need the Gift Card Number and a PIN (or security code).
Visit the Airline’s Official Website: Go to the official website of the airline that issued the gift card (e.g., AA.com for American Airlines, Delta.com for Delta, etc.).
Search for Flights: Select your desired destination, dates, and number of passengers, and choose the flight(s) and fare class you want to book.
Proceed to Payment: Continue through the booking process until you reach the Payment page.
Find the Gift Card Option: Look for a section labeled “Gift Card,” “Certificate,” “eVoucher,” or “Other Forms of Payment.”
Enter Codes:
Carefully enter the Gift Card Number (often 16 digits).
Enter the corresponding PIN or Security Code (usually 4 digits). This is typically found by gently scratching off a silver strip on the back of a physical card or included in the e-gift card email.
Apply and Check Balance: Click “Apply” or “Redeem.” The gift card value will be deducted from your total airfare.
Finalize Payment:
If the ticket cost is less than the gift card value, the remaining balance usually stays on the card for a future booking.
If the ticket cost exceeds the gift card value, you will need to pay the remaining balance using a credit card or other accepted payment method.
Important Rules and Restrictions:
Airline gift cards have specific rules you must be aware of:
| Restriction | Details |
| Primary Use | Gift cards are almost always redeemable only toward the initial purchase of the airfare and directly associated government taxes/fees (Source: American Airlines, Delta). |
| Baggage/Extras | Most airlines do not allow the gift card to be used for separate fees, such as: baggage fees, pet fees, upgrades, in-flight purchases, or premium seating purchased after the initial ticket (Source: Delta, American Airlines, Southwest). |
| Where to Book | They are typically only valid when booking directly on the issuing airline’s website, app, or through their reservation line. They cannot usually be used on third-party sites like Expedia or Kayak. |
| Combining Cards | Most airlines have a limit on how many gift cards you can use in a single transaction (e.g., Delta allows up to 5, American allows up to 8). |
| Expiration | Many major U.S. airline gift cards (like Delta and American) do not expire, but always check the terms for your specific card, as some international carriers (like Ryanair) may have validity periods. |
