How to Fly Standby

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Step 1: Have a ticket
Have a ticket. Most airlines no longer allow stand-by travel unless the flyer already has a ticket, and it is typically allowed only for flights to the same destination.

Tip
If you are 18 to 22, check out Air Tran’s special standby program for college age travelers. It allows you to fly standby without having a ticket.

Step 2: Call ahead
Before you even think about going to the airport, call your airline to get their policy on flying stand-by and to see if there are seats available on the flight you want.

Step 3: Prepare to pay
Prepare to pay a fee for the privilege of flying standby; most airlines charge one, though some waive it for their frequent flyers.

Tip
Most airlines only allow stand-by travel on the same day as your original flight, and some impose time restrictions, like only allowing you to rebook on a flight within six to 12 hours.

Step 4: Get on the list
At the airport, go to the check-in counter and ask to be put on a list for stand-by flights to your destination. Seats are awarded on a fist-come, first-served basis, so plan on getting to the airport early.

Tip
Remember, you can’t check luggage when you fly standby, so don’t over-pack.

Step 5: Double-check
Head to your gate and double-check with the gate attendant that you are on the standby list.

Step 6: Stay put
Once you’re at the gate, stay put. If a seat becomes available while you’re waiting for your double latte, it will go to the next person on the list.

Did You Know?
U.S. airplanes have gone from an average of 62% full in 1990 to 81% full in 2007.