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Velvet Digest

How do you get standby tickets?

Author

Ethan Hayes

Updated on April 27, 2026

To fly standby, make sure to purchase a cheap ticket from the airline you want to fly on so you can clear security when you get to the airport. Once you clear security, go to the gate for the flight you want to take and ask the attendant to put you on a standby list.

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Consequently, how much does it cost to fly standby?

The cost of flying standby depends on two things: the flight itself, and who you are to the airline. Most likely, however, there will be a nominal charge of between $25 and $100 to fly standby.

Also, are standby flights free? A few standby seats are free, but most will cost you. The freebies typically go to elite miles members or those who've already purchased tickets in first or business class (but this varies by airline, so always check). Those who buy more expensive refundable economy seats also may get free standby.

Also to know is, how do you fly standby?

To fly standby, passengers can request to fly standby when checking in online or at the airport. Once requested, the airline advises passengers to head to the departure gate early; however, standby status won't be known until 30 minutes prior to flight departure.

How does the standby list work?

Standby is the list you're on until you get your seat. Everyone on a BE fare is on the standby list until their seat is assigned. It does not mean you're going to be bumped. It means you're standing by for your seat assignment.

Related Question Answers

How do you get put on standby?

You can fly “standby” at no additional charge or for a minimal fee.
  1. Review your ticket receipt or your online ticket via the airline's website.
  2. Check the desired flights for availability.
  3. Review your schedule versus flight availability.
  4. Get to the airport early, preferably at least 1.5 hours before the flight.

What happens if you don't fly on standby?

If you are able to get a standby seat, you'll be charged a fee or the difference between your original ticket and the price of the new seat you're taking in some cases. But if you don't get a standby seat, there's still hope.

Do airlines lower prices last minute?

Airlines know that business travellers tend to book their seats at the last minute and are willing to pay a premium for their flights. Fares are generally 8pc cheaper three weeks before departure than fares booked six months in advance, according to research by travel comparison website Kayak.co.uk.

Is it still possible to fly standby?

The short answer is no. Airlines no longer allow you to wait around at the counter in hopes of snagging a "standby flight" and filling the last seat of a departing flight. And buying a ticket on the day of a flight would do the opposite of save you money -- last-minute tickets are staggeringly expensive.

What is a buddy pass?

Buddy pass travel is a perk that airline employees can share with those they choose. Buddy passes (or pass riders) are standby tickets that can be used by family and friends in order to travel at a very reduced rate. You can't buy a buddy pass from an airline, you can only get them from an airline employee.

How can I fly cheap last minute?

Traveling this summer? 5 ways to save money and nab last-minute flight deals
  1. Use a flight map. Google Flights and Skyscanner have handy map tools that can help you find the cheapest flight.
  2. Call the airline.
  3. Fly during undesirable hours.
  4. Tap your rewards.
  5. Follow your favorite airlines.

Can I buy a standby ticket?

Nowadays, passengers who travel standby already hold a ticket but want to upgrade their seat, switch to an earlier or later flight or change their destination. Old style standby flying is available only to airline industry workers or their relatives or friends who hold "buddy passes."

Do airlines still do standby?

Flying standby can secure you a flight for a different time than originally booked. All standby passengers need to have a confirmed ticket, either by purchasing one outright or thanks to a “buddy pass” from an airline employee. Many airlines' websites and mobile applications can assist you with flying standby concerns.

What does be on standby mean?

1a : one to be relied on especially in emergencies. b : a favorite or reliable choice or resource. 2 : one that is held in reserve ready for use : substitute. on standby. : ready or available for immediate action or use.

How does AA standby work?

American Airlines Employee Standby You must check in no later than 60 minutes before departure for domestic flights and 90 minutes for international flights. If seats are not available on the requested flight, you will be “rolled” onto the standby list for the next available flight.

How do you get on standby list on United?

Eligible customers can add themselves to the standby list at an airport kiosk by selecting "View Flight Options" when reviewing their itinerary or by contacting a United airport representative.

Can I fly standby on United for free?

United Airlines charges a $75 fee whether you request a same day confirmed change or a standby on an earlier flight. However, the fee will only be charged if your standby is successful. Members with Premier Gold, Platinum, or 1K status do not have to pay this fee.

How do I find American Airlines standby list?

A: In order to view the standby list, you must have already requested to be placed on the standby list. You can view the list by selecting the green bar displayed with your flight information. To request to be placed on the standby list, please see an airport agent.

How do I check Delta standby list?

The SkyMiles App You can also start at Delta.com and navigate to Travel Information > Mobile and app. You can only see if you'r eon the Standby list if you have a reservation on that flight. When viewing your reservation, you will see a tab for Upgrade and another for Standby.

How can I catch an earlier flight?

Approach the gate agent and ask about miss-connects and inform the agent that you're on the later flight (it will be very helpful if your ticketed flight is full or oversold). Putting you on the earlier flight allows the airline to accommodate the “miss-connects” onto your later flight without hassle or cost to anyone.

Is it cheaper to fly standby?

Standby flights: Standby for different departure: You have a confirmed ticket but it's a cheap red-eye and you'd love to get on that earlier (and more expensive) flight. Try standby, but beware: the reason the earlier flight is more expensive is because it's more popular so it's likely full.

How can I fly for free?

The 10 Best Ways to Get FREE Flights
  1. Get Bumped.
  2. Leverage Credit Card Sign-up Offers.
  3. Use Everyday Credit Card Rewards.
  4. Check Out Frequent Flier Programs.
  5. Consider Dining Rewards Programs.
  6. Opt for Programs with Companion Tickets.
  7. Look for Free Tickets from the Financial World.
  8. Ask for Frequent Flier Miles as a Gift.

Why is wanna get away so cheap?

Wanna Get Away is by no means a basic economy fare. Just keep in mind with Southwest fares go up as your travel date gets closer. Though fares are nonrefundable, you can still cancel without penalty and the fare can be applied toward future travel on Southwest Airlines for the originally ticketed passenger only.

Can you fly standby on Delta?

With standby, you can wait for an open seat on a different flight. You can use the Same-Day Standby option for travel within the United States, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands on Delta and Delta Connection flights. Origin and/or destination changes are not available for a Same-Day Standby.