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How Standby Flights Work: A Beginner’s Guide
Flying standby can be a smart way to catch an earlier flight, avoid long layovers, or adjust your schedule on short notice. While the process can seem confusing to beginners, understanding how standby lists work, airline policies, and your chances of getting a seat can help you use this option effectively.
This guide explains the different types of standby flights, how to get on the list, and proven strategies to improve your odds of success.
5-Step Quick Checklist
- Check eligibility for standby based on your fare type.
- Request standby early via app, kiosk, or gate agent.
- Travel light to increase flexibility and avoid checked baggage issues.
- Monitor standby lists on the airline’s app or display boards.
- Keep your original flight as a fallback in case no standby seats are available.
What Is a Standby Flight?
A standby flight means you are waiting for an available seat on a flight for which you do not yet have a confirmed seat assignment. Standby passengers are placed on a waitlist and can board only if another passenger doesn’t show up, misses a connection, or if there are unsold seats.
Two Main Types of Standby Passengers:
1. Voluntary Standby (Same-Day Change)
You already have a confirmed ticket but want to:
- Catch an earlier or later flight on the same day.
- Avoid long layovers or schedule conflicts.
You’re added to the standby list for another flight on the same route.
2. Non-Revenue or Non-Confirmed Standby
These are travelers flying without confirmed bookings, such as:
- Airline employees using non-rev (non-revenue) benefits.
- Travelers using buddy passes or employee guest tickets.
- Passengers attempting standby without a ticket (very rare for the public today).

How to Get on the Standby List
If you have a regular ticket and want to fly standby:
- Book an eligible fare. Not all tickets qualify for standby—basic economy fares often don’t.
- Request standby status through the airline’s app, airport kiosk, or by speaking with a gate agent.
- Follow the rules. Most airlines require you to travel on the same day, on the same route, and with the same carrier.
Pro Tip: Some airlines offer free same-day standby for elite status members or certain fare types. Always check the current policy online before arriving at the airport.
Airline Standby Policies: At a Glance
Here’s a quick comparison of standby rules across major U.S. airlines:
Airline | Same-Day Standby | Fee? | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
American | Yes, most fares | $75 (waived for elites) | Must request before original departure |
Delta | Yes | Free for Medallion, $75 | Request via app or kiosk |
United | Yes | Free for Premier, $75 | Must be within 24 hours |
Southwest | Anytime/Business Select only | Free | Not available for Wanna Get Away fares |
Alaska | Yes | $25–$50 (free for elites) | Available for all passengers |
JetBlue | Yes | $75 | Must be same route and same day |
For the latest updates, check each airline’s official website.
How Are Standby Seats Assigned?
Seats are distributed based on priority and availability, with the typical order being:
- Elite frequent flyer members.
- Passengers rebooked due to flight disruptions.
- Paying customers requesting voluntary standby.
- Airline employees or non-revenue travelers.
Your place on the standby list depends on your ticket type, elite status, check-in time, and the number of available seats.
What Happens If You Don’t Get a Seat?
- Voluntary Standby: You still keep your original confirmed ticket. You won’t be charged unless a change fee is applied when requesting standby.
- Non-Revenue Standby: You’ll need to wait for the next available flight—no seat is guaranteed.
Tips to Improve Your Standby Chances
- Arrive early and check in as soon as possible.
- Travel with carry-on luggage only to avoid baggage complications.
- Target off-peak flights (mid-week or early morning) with more open seats.
- Be courteous and flexible with gate agents—they can prioritize passengers who are polite and adaptable.
- Monitor the standby list in real time via the airline’s app (Delta, United, and American all display this).
- Consider frequent flyer programs—elite status often boosts standby priority.
Can You Save Money by Flying Standby?
In most cases, no. The era of deeply discounted last-minute standby tickets is largely over. However, you can still use standby to:
- Catch an earlier flight without additional cost (for some fare classes or elite members).
- Adjust your plans for a minimal same-day change fee.
- Recover from missed connections when standard rebooking options are limited.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is standby the same as overbooking?
No. Overbooking means an airline sells more tickets than available seats. Standby is a waitlist process for passengers who want to change flights or fly without a confirmed seat.
Can I fly standby without a ticket?
No, most airlines require a purchased ticket to request standby, except for employee or buddy pass travelers.
Can I check bags when flying standby?
It’s not recommended. Since your seat isn’t guaranteed, checking bags can complicate logistics. Stick to carry-on luggage if possible.
Do standby passengers get the worst seats?
Standby passengers receive remaining seat assignments after all confirmed passengers have boarded, which often means limited seating choices.
Will I be refunded if I don’t fly standby?
Not typically. However, some airlines will refund a paid standby fee if you didn’t get a seat—check individual policies.
Final Thoughts
Flying standby can be a valuable tool for flexible travelers who want to leave earlier, skip long layovers, or rework their schedules. While it’s no longer a strategy for ultra-cheap flights, knowing your airline’s policies and approaching standby strategically can save time and reduce stress.
Stay prepared, be courteous to gate agents, and always have a backup plan in case a seat doesn’t open up.