As a active serviceman, or someone that served in the past, there are some ways that you can take in order to get discounted airline tickets.  Instead of paying full price, get the discount that you deserve, and here’s how you do it.

Use services like MilitaryFares - MilitaryFares.com is a great site for those serving the military as of today.  Search for plane tickets back home, and see how much you would have to pay, after your discount is taken off of the airfare.  Remember that you can’t rip off the system with these discounts, so I wouldn’t even try, because it could even end up with jail time.

Space available flight - The space available flight is a privilege that is only provided the servicemen, and women serving the US.  The space flight can offer great discounts, and if you’re looking to go this route, you will find that the US has cut back on the booking online, due to the 9-11 events.  I would meet with someone higher up in the military to get more information on this program.

Ask the airlines directly - Most airlines won’t advertise it, but like many businesses, they will give you a discount, as long as you have some sort of ID.  Ask the airlines ahead of time with any discount you can receive.  These discounts can range anywhere from 5% off, and up.

Being in the military has a lot of advantages, including your airline tickets.  Try some of these tips, and see if you can get the discounted airline tickets that you were looking for on your next flight out of town.