Roberta Aguirre
Flying standby is when a passenger without a seat assignment waits at the gate to see if there are any extra seats after all scheduled passengers have boarded. Passengers may choose to fly standby for several reasons, including taking an earlier or later flight to the same destination, or upgrading to first class. Standby passengers are typically prioritised based on their ticket fare and frequent flyer status. While standby used to be a cheap or free option, most airlines now charge a fee, with costs varying between airlines and individual flights. To fly standby, passengers must have purchased a ticket to clear security and access the departure gate.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | Flying standby means a passenger with a ticket but without a seat assignment waits at the gate to see if there is an extra seat after all scheduled passengers have boarded. |
| Who can fly standby? | Anyone with a ticket can fly standby. However, passengers with full-fare tickets, first-class tickets, business-class tickets, or elite program memberships often have priority and may not have to pay a fee. |
| Cost | Most airlines charge a fee for flying standby, which can vary from $25 to $100, with a common fee of $75. Some airlines offer free standby for certain fare classes or under specific circumstances. |
| How to get on the standby list | To get on the standby list, speak to a ticket or gate agent in person at the airport. Some airlines may also allow you to join the standby list using their app. |
| When to arrive at the airport | Arrive at least two hours before the flight you want to catch, as standby seats are more likely to be available on earlier flights. |
| Other considerations | Flying standby adds excitement to your travel experience but requires flexibility and preparation. It is more common during off-peak times, and it is recommended to pack lightly and travel alone when flying standby. |
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What You'll Learn
Flying standby today is different from the past
Another difference is that in the past, passengers could simply show up at the airport and purchase these discounted tickets. Today, due to increased security measures and airline seating algorithms, it is no longer possible to fly without a pre-purchased ticket. Now, flying standby allows passengers who have already purchased tickets to make same-day changes to their travel plans if seats are available on their desired flights. This provides more flexibility in travel plans but requires some preparation, such as checking the airline's standby policies and downloading their app.
The availability of standby seats has also decreased over time. Airlines aim to fill each flight as much as possible, reducing the chances of getting a standby seat. Additionally, there are typically fewer standby seats available during holidays and weekends, with more options available during off-peak times. Standby passengers also have priority based on their ticket type and status in the airline's frequent flyer program, further impacting the availability of seats for those without pre-purchased tickets.
Overall, while flying standby in the past offered a cheap and spontaneous travel option, today it is more expensive, requires pre-planning, and has reduced availability due to various factors. These changes have shifted flying standby from a budget-friendly, adventurous option to a more flexible travel choice for those with pre-purchased tickets.
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How to get on the standby list
Flying standby is a great way to save money on plane tickets and add excitement to your travel experience. However, it requires a flexible schedule and some preparation. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get on the standby list:
- Purchase a ticket: In today's aviation industry, flying standby usually requires a paid ticket purchased in advance. This is due to increased security measures and capacity algorithms that aim to fill flights to capacity.
- Check the airline's standby policies: Different airlines have different policies and fees for standby passengers. Understand these policies before you arrive at the airport. Some airlines may allow you to register for standby online or over the phone, while others require you to speak with an agent in person.
- Arrive at the airport early: The chances of securing a standby seat on earlier flights are higher than on later flights. Aim to arrive at the airport at least two hours before the flight you're hoping to catch.
- Go to the gate: Once you have cleared security, go to the gate for the flight you want to take.
- Speak to the gate agent: Ask the gate agent politely if they can add your name to the standby list. Making a good impression can increase your chances of securing a standby seat. Remember that standby passengers typically have priority based on their ticket fare and status in the airline's frequent flyer program.
- Wait for your name to be called: You may have a long wait, so bring some entertainment like a book, magazine, or your electronic device. If you are not selected for the current flight, you will be rolled into the standby list for the next flight.
- Consider travelling alone: The chances of multiple standby seats being available on any flight are slim. Individual travellers are more likely to secure standby seats.
- Focus on off-peak times: There are usually fewer seats available during peak travel times, holidays, and major events.
- Join an airline rewards program: Many airlines offer perks to members of their rewards programs, such as priority on the standby list or reduced fees for flying standby.
- Be prepared for last-minute changes: Flying standby requires flexibility and spontaneity. Be ready to travel at a moment's notice and only bring carry-on luggage, as there may not be time to check your bags.
Remember that flying standby is not as straightforward as it used to be, and you may encounter restrictions and fees depending on the airline and your circumstances.
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Standby fees and costs
Some airlines, such as American Airlines, offer free unconfirmed standby for an earlier flight to all passengers but charge a fee for confirmed standby. They also restrict standby for later flights to members with elite status or fully refundable tickets. Similarly, Southwest Airlines offers free standby seats to their Business, Wanna Get Away, and Senior fares, while passengers with cheaper Wanna Get Away fares must upgrade to the Anytime fare to access standby.
On the other hand, United Airlines charges $75 for standby travel to all passengers except those on full-fare tickets, 1K passengers, Global Services passengers, and premium cabin passengers. Alaska Airlines also offers free same-day standby on specific routes, while charging a $25 fee for other standby requests. Delta charges $75 for same-day standby for earlier flights unless the passenger has top-tier status in their SkyMiles program.
It is worth noting that flying standby may require additional costs, such as paying for checked luggage if there is insufficient room in the plane's baggage hold. Additionally, passengers on standby may need to pay for transportation to and from the airport if they choose to leave during a layover.
While standby fees can be a convenient option for passengers needing flexibility, they are not guaranteed, and passengers may still need to pay a fee if they do not get a seat. Therefore, it is essential to check the specific policies and fees of the airline before relying on standby options.
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Airlines with free standby options
Flying standby is a great option for travellers with flexible schedules and lower budgets. It is when a passenger without a seat assignment waits at the gate to see if there is an extra seat after all the scheduled passengers have boarded. Standby flights are usually taken by passengers who want to catch an earlier flight than their booked one or those who missed their original flight and couldn't get a confirmed seat on a new flight.
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines offers free same-day standby to passengers with pre-purchased tickets. Standby seating is offered only for non-stop flights between Anchorage and Fairbanks, Seattle and Portland, and Seattle and Spokane. Passengers flying standby must be at the departure gates thirty minutes before departure.
American Airlines
American Airlines offers free unconfirmed standby for an earlier flight to all passengers, but charges a fee for confirmed standby. As of 25 June 2024, American Airlines also permits standby for earlier flights on the same day for free if you're a member of American's AAdvantage program (no elite status is required). Any AAdvantage member can standby for an earlier flight, but only elite members can standby for a later flight. Complimentary standby is available only for travel within and between the US, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands.
Delta Airlines
As of 25 June 2024, Delta only offers standby if Same-Day Confirmed flight changes are not available (a $75 fee may apply). However, Delta may allow standby for free on flights departing within the US, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. Tickets booked in Basic Economy and other international routes are not eligible for standby.
Southwest Airlines
As of 25 June 2024, Southwest provides same-day standby options to all passengers without additional charges.
United Airlines
As of 25 June 2024, United offers free same-day standby. Premier members can stand by for free, while other passengers must pay $75.
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Tips for flying standby
Flying standby is a request to take a flight different from the one a passenger was originally ticketed for. Standby passengers do not have a guaranteed seat on the plane and are taking a chance that a seat may become available last minute on a different, typically earlier, flight.
Know the rules
Each airline has its own set of standby rules, so make sure you check out the airline's website and understand every detail about their standby policy before looking into standby tickets. For example, some airlines may have a dress code for passengers flying standby. It is also important to understand consumer protections while flying.
Be prepared to wait
Flying standby requires a lot of patience. You might have to wait several hours for an airline standby seat. When the flight begins boarding, keep your ears tuned to hear your name.
Be flexible
Standby passengers need to be flexible and prepared for last-minute changes. Understand that you may not get your first choice of flight or seat, and be prepared to take an earlier or later flight.
Travel light
Since you will likely be one of the last individuals to board the plane, there may be limited space for luggage. It is recommended to pack light and only bring a carry-on bag and a small personal item, such as a purse or tote.
Be polite
All interactions with airline staff should be cordial and polite. Being friendly and appreciative can go a long way, and people are more willing to help you if they like you. A small thank you gift for flight attendants is always appreciated.
Plan ahead
While flying standby allows for spontaneous travel, it is important to plan ahead and be prepared. Research the airports you are flying to and from, and consider avoiding peak times such as holidays or major events, as you are less likely to get a standby seat during these times.
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Frequently asked questions
Flying standby means that you are waiting at the airport without a seat assignment to see if there are any extra seats on a flight after all the passengers with booked seats have boarded.
To get on the standby list, you must already have an airplane ticket so that you can clear security and get to the gate. Then, you can ask the gate agent to put you on the list.
Most airlines charge a fee for flying standby, which varies from airline to airline and flight to flight, but typically costs $25 to $100. Some airlines offer free standby for certain classes of tickets or members of their elite or premium programs.
