Individuals traveling on Academy business are required to purchase airline tickets at the lowest available non-refundable main cabin/economy coach fare (tickets do not need to be booked in "basic" fare classes). Generally, the farther in advance a ticket is booked, the lower the airfare. Please try to book your flights as early as possible (30 days or more). Note: The Academy provides reimbursement ONLY for main cabin/economy coach airfare, not for premium coach, business or first class.
If the Academy makes changes to the meeting schedule that require an individual to change travel plans, the Academy will reimburse any additional charges or penalties that are incurred.
Exceptions to these policies pertaining to airfare will be granted on a case-by-case basis for illness, family emergency, or other extraordinary circumstances.
An individual may combine Academy business with personal travel, provided that any additional cost associated with the personal travel is paid by the individual. Subject to prior Academy approval, the total cost of business and personal air fare will be reimbursed if such cost is equal to or less than that which would have been incurred for Academy business alone.
In keeping with IRS rules that do not allow a deduction for flights booked with frequent flier miles, the Academy will not reimburse for the value of a flight booked via miles. However, add on fees paid in relation to the ticket (such as taxes and airport fees) may be submitted for reimbursement.