Flying standby what is

Every airline has its own standby policy and potential fees. This guide can provide some information, but it is always best to contact them directly in case of any changes. Well we'd love it if you left us a review. It only takes 30 seconds, we promise! What will your next vacation cost? On some you might be able to add yourself to the list and pay the fee online, or you might have to call the airline. Usually, standby seats are filled on a first come, first served basis.

You might not clear on the standby list until boarding is complete. Only airline employees and their companions flying on a buddy pass can really save money through flying standby. Avoid travel that requires connecting flights. The final passengers are being called.

Be patient up until the gate closes. The flight crew sometimes makes last minute decisions about seat availability. Spontaneity is NOT dead; it just requires some planning. The responses below are not provided or commissioned by the bank advertiser. Responses have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the bank advertiser. Shelli Stein is a travel writer, health educator , and story teller. She has come to realize writing as a way of sharing travel experiences brings her a lot of pleasure!

Her areas of expertise are: all things Southwest Airlines , hotel reviews , and what to do, see, and eat in destinations around the world. She sees travel as an adventure, trying to somehow get inside and experience a different way of life, a different cultural heritage. Inspire you with new ideas for your next vacation. Attempt to put a smile on your face. Help you learn from her mistakes. Or challenge your assumptions about the world. She lives life with humor, gratitude, and humility and always sees the coffee cup as half full!

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Sign me up for news, deals, and guides! This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed. Breaking It Down:. Prepared and waiting to fly standby. Flying standby requires patience and time.

Read our full article on detailed standby policies by airline. Whether you're a ticketed passenger or you have a buddy pass, you'll want to show up as early as possible if you can't get on the list by phone or online.

In most cases, this means showing up a few hours before the first flight of the day. Because passengers are placed on the standby list on a first come, first served basis, this will maximize your chances of success.

If you're using a buddy pass, be prepared to stay for the last flight of the day, since airlines will place paying customers first. And don't give up or leave until the flight you're trying to get on actually takes off; you never know when last-minute changes might occur.

What are my others options for cheaper, flexible travel? Airlines have become eerily efficient at filling up planes, which has given them greater leverage to keep prices high and steady. If you're looking to save on last-minute travel, look towards the budget carriers Southwest, JetBlue, Spirit, Frontier, etc. If you have time to plan, aim to travel on days that are less frequented by business travelers. On a typical week, Saturday, Tuesday, and Wednesday are the best days to travel and avoid the business commuters, which in turn can lead to lower fares.