Every year, Black Friday marks the beginning of one of the biggest shopping and travel deal seasons in the world. While most people think of Black Friday as the day to buy gadgets, clothes, or electronics, smart travelers know it’s also the perfect time to book cheap flights.
If you’re planning a vacation, a business trip, or even a weekend getaway, Black Friday flight deals can help you save hundreds of dollars. But how exactly can you get those unbeatable airfare prices? In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know — from where to find deals to the best ways to book them before they disappear.
What Are Black Friday Flight Deals?
Black Friday flight deals are special airfare discounts that airlines and travel agencies release around the fourth Friday of November, right after Thanksgiving. These promotions often extend through Cyber Monday, giving travelers a few days to book cheap flights before the sales end.
During this period, airlines drop prices dramatically — sometimes by 30% to 70% — to attract early vacation planners for the upcoming year. You can find discounts on domestic flights, international trips, and even on business or first-class tickets.
Why Airlines Offer Big Discounts on Black Friday
Airlines use Black Friday to boost bookings for slower travel months, especially January through March. Many people have completed their holiday travel plans, so airlines offer these promotions to fill seats for future flights.
It’s a win-win: you get cheaper fares, and airlines ensure their planes fly full. Some travel companies also use Black Friday to attract new customers with extra perks like:
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Free checked bags
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Bonus miles or reward points
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Hotel and flight combo discounts
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Flexible booking and cancellation policies
How to Find the Best Black Friday Flight Deals
Getting the best deal requires a little planning and the right tools. Here are some proven strategies:
1. Start Researching Early
Don’t wait until the day itself. Many airlines and travel agencies release early Black Friday deals up to a week before. Begin comparing prices early so you know what’s truly a discount when the sale starts.
2. Subscribe to Airline Newsletters
Sign up for email alerts from your favorite airlines such as Delta, United, Southwest, Alaska, Emirates, and Qatar Airways. Subscribers often get early access to Black Friday promo codes before they’re announced publicly.
3. Use Flight Comparison Websites
Platforms like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak allow you to search hundreds of airlines at once. They’ll show you which flights have dropped in price and which airlines are offering special Black Friday discounts.
4. Set Price Alerts
Before Black Friday, set up alerts for your preferred destinations. You’ll receive notifications when fares drop — saving you from endless searching.
5. Be Flexible with Travel Dates and Airports
Flexibility is your secret weapon. Traveling midweek or flying from nearby airports can cut costs significantly. Airlines often apply the biggest discounts on less popular travel days.
6. Follow Airlines on Social Media
Many airlines post flash deals exclusively on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook during Black Friday weekend. Following them gives you instant access to limited-time offers.
Popular Destinations for Black Friday Flight Deals
Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical beach or a cultural escape, Black Friday flight sales cover destinations worldwide. Some of the top deals typically include:
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Hawaii – Escape the cold and relax in paradise.
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New York City – A top pick for holiday lights and shopping.
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London – Visit Europe for less with transatlantic discounts.
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Dubai – Enjoy luxury travel at economy prices.
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Paris – Experience romance and culture for a fraction of the usual cost.
Many airlines also offer discounted flights across North America, including Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, and Seattle.
Which Airlines Offer Black Friday Flight Deals?
Almost every major airline joins the Black Friday rush, offering discounted fares and bonus deals. Keep an eye on:
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Alaska Airlines
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American Airlines
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Delta Air Lines
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United Airlines
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Southwest Airlines
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JetBlue
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British Airways
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Emirates
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Qatar Airways
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Air Canada
Budget carriers like Spirit Airlines, Frontier, and Ryanair also slash prices on short-haul routes — perfect for budget travelers.
When to Book and When to Travel
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Best time to book: Between Thanksgiving (Thursday) and Cyber Monday (Monday).
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Best travel period: January through May and mid-September through November.
Black Friday is ideal for booking early 2026 travel dates since airlines promote future journeys during this period.
Extra Tips for Getting the Lowest Prices
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Clear browser cookies or use incognito mode to avoid dynamic price increases.
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Book round-trip tickets instead of one-way for extra savings.
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Combine deals with credit card rewards or airline miles.
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Use travel apps that offer instant price alerts and mobile-only discounts.
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Avoid peak times like Christmas and New Year for the biggest savings.
Need Help Booking Black Friday Flights?
Finding the best Black Friday deal can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Contact travel experts at +1 (800) 419-9920 for personalized help in comparing flights, finding hidden discounts, and booking your tickets quickly before prices rise again.
Final Thoughts
So, how can you get Black Friday deals on flights? It’s all about timing, flexibility, and smart searching. Start early, compare fares, sign up for alerts, and be ready to act fast when you find a great price.
Black Friday only comes once a year — and it’s your golden chance to plan dream vacations, business trips, or family holidays for less. Whether you’re flying across the country or across the world, don’t miss out on these limited-time offers that can save you big.