Booking flights for a group is not the same as booking one seat, ten times. Airlines treat groups separately, with their own deposits, name lists and deadlines. Here is how it works, in plain terms.
What is a group booking?
A group booking is a reservation for a team traveling on the same flights. Airlines set their own minimum, often around ten travelers. The booking is held with a deposit, and you can usually supply the final passenger names closer to departure.
What is an airline group rate?
A group rate is a negotiated fare for a team. It is useful because it holds seats and a price for the whole team, and it often comes with more flexibility than individual tickets. It is not always cheaper than the best public fare, so a good agent compares both.
The usual timeline
- Request a quote: route, dates, headcount or a range.
- Hold seats with a deposit: $50 per person domestic, $200 per person international with TravelSource.
- Confirm the count and names: airlines ask for the final list closer to departure.
- Final payment and ticketing: typically 45 to 75 days before departure, depending on the airline.
Paying as a group
The coordinator can arrange payment by ACH bank transfer or Zelle. Each traveler can also pay for their own seat, in full or over monthly payments on eligible bookings, as long as every seat is paid by the group’s final payment date.
Missionary, church and humanitarian groups
Teams heading overseas on mission or humanitarian trips have extra things to plan: baggage for supplies, a host letter and itemized lists for customs, and entry and health requirements. See our mission team booking timeline and mission travel page.
Next steps
Read about group flights, or request a group quote. Our cheap flights page explains how we compare fares.
Last reviewed: October 27, 2026. Airline rules, fares and schedules change, so your specialist confirms the current options when they quote your trip.
Questions, answered.
What counts as a group for flights?
Airlines set their own minimum, often around ten travelers on the same flights. Smaller teams can still get a specialist quote.
Is a group rate always cheaper?
Not always. A group rate can be higher than the best public fare on a given day, so it is worth comparing.
How much is a deposit?
Our group deposits are $50 per person for domestic trips and $200 per person for international trips. Your quote confirms the amount and the date it is due.
When is final payment due?
Typically 45 to 75 days before departure, depending on the airline. Your quote shows the date for your trip.
