State "YCAL/VCAL" Fares

The State of California has specially negotiated rates for in-state, out-of-state, and international travel for all state employees. These fares are available to UC faculty and staff traveling on University business and cannot be purchased with a personal credit card.

UC Travel Center is the only state-approved agency in Connexxus authorized to book State "YCAL/VCAL" Fares. You must use a Direct Bill ID to prepay airfare and service fees.

For the 2012/2013 fiscal year, only Alaska Airlines, JetBlue, United, and Virgin America are participating in this program.

State "YCAL/VCAL" Fares may not always be the lowest available rates, but if your plans are constantly in flux or if you are making last-minute bookings, using these fares may offer the best deal as they tend to be penalty free, with no restrictions attached. Due to the flexible nature of the tickets, and the fact that these fares are available to ALL State of California employees, there may be a limited number of seats available on any given flight.

Cost of YCAL/VCAL State Fares

The State of California DGS web site has fare schedules showing the cost of one-way travel for California, out-of-state, and international destinations. The fare schedules include federal and local taxes, but exclude U.S. domestic taxes, airport facility charges, security fees, and fuel surcharges (which vary based on base fare and destination points).

When You're Ready

If you decide to book a state fare:

  1. Obtain a Direct Bill ID from the Direct Bill Travel site;
  2. Click on "Contact an Agent" under UC Travel Center and call the agency to check on availability of your flight choices;
  3. Provide the agent with the Direct Bill ID to confirm your flights;
  4. You must submit the original fare receipt when you request reimbursement after your trip.
    5. Note: You will receive an electronic ticket. Your itinerary/invoice serves as your receipt. Or, you can request a receipt at the airline gate.