Standby tickets, sometimes known as “space-available” tickets, offer a significant discount on regular airfare. They are a great way to save money on travel, but they come with a few caveats. First, standby tickets are not guaranteed. You may not be able to board the flight if there are not enough seats available. Second, standby tickets are notrefundable. If you are unable to board the flight, you will lose the cost of your ticket.
Despite these drawbacks, standby tickets can be a great way to save money on travel. If you are flexible with your travel plans and are willing to take the risk of not being able to board the flight, standby tickets can be a great option. To purchase a standby ticket, contact the airline directly. You will need to provide the airline with your travel dates and destinations. The airline will then tell you if there are any standby tickets available and how much they will cost. If you decide to purchase a standby ticket, you will need to arrive at the airport early on the day of your flight. You will need to check in with the airline and wait for your flight to be called. If there are not enough seats available, you will not be able to board the flight.
Standby tickets can be a great way to save money on travel, but they are not for everyone. If you are not flexible with your travel plans or are not willing to take the risk of not being able to board the flight, standby tickets are not a good option. However, if you are flexible and willing to take the risk, standby tickets can be a great way to save money on your next trip.
Eligibility for Standby Tickets
Standby tickets offer a chance to score last-minute deals on flights, but eligibility requirements can vary depending on the airline and fare class you’re booking. Here are some common eligibility criteria:
Residency Restrictions
| Airline | Residency Requirements |
|---|---|
| Alaska Airlines | U.S. or Canadian residents only |
| Delta Air Lines | U.S. or Canada residents only |
| Southwest Airlines | U.S., Canada, and Mexico residents only |
Note: Some airlines may allow non-residents to purchase standby tickets if they have a valid visa or work permit in the country they’re departing from.
Age Restrictions
* Most airlines require passengers to be at least 18 years old to purchase standby tickets.
* Exceptions may be made for unaccompanied minors traveling with a guardian.
Fare Class
* Standby tickets are typically only available for discounted economy fares.
* Business and first-class passengers are usually not eligible for standby options.
Operational Restrictions
* Airlines may limit standby availability during peak travel periods or on popular routes.
* Standby tickets may not be available on flights with limited seating capacity or that are already fully booked.
Other Considerations
Identifying Eligible Flights
To purchase standby tickets successfully, it’s crucial to first identify flights that allow for standby travel. Begin your search by visiting the airline’s website or a reliable online booking platform.
When exploring available flights, pay close attention to the following parameters:
1. Flight Type
Typically, standby tickets are available only for direct or non-stop flights.
2. Ticket Restrictions
Fare restrictions and flight availability play a significant role in determining standby eligibility. Check if the specific flight and fare class you’re considering allow for standby purchases.
3. Route Restrictions
Certain routes may have restrictions on standby travel, especially during peak season or on high-demand flights.
Purchasing Standby Tickets Online
Purchasing standby tickets online is a convenient way to save money on your next flight. Follow these steps to get started:
1. Visit the airline’s website
You will need to start by visiting the website of the airline you plan to fly with. Once on the airline’s website, look for the “Standby Tickets” or “Waitlist Tickets” section.
2. Select your flight
Once you have found the standby ticket section, select your flight. You will need to provide the following information:
3. Check the availability and prices
After you have entered your flight information, the airline will show you a list of available standby flights. The list will include the following information:
| Airline | Route | Standby Fare |
|---|---|---|
| United Airlines | Los Angeles to San Francisco | $50 |
| Delta Air Lines | New York to Boston | $40 |
Confirmation of Boarding
Once you’ve been confirmed for standby, you’ll be assigned a boarding number. This number determines your priority for boarding the flight. The gate agent will call boarding numbers in order, so it’s important to arrive at the gate on time and listen for your number to be called.
If your boarding number is called, proceed to the gate agent and present your boarding pass. The agent will then issue you a boarding pass for the flight and direct you to the boarding area.
If your boarding number is not called, do not panic. There are still several ways to get on the flight, such as through:
Option |
Description |
|---|---|
| Gate standby | Asks the gate agent if there are any open seats on the flight and if you can be added to the standby list. |
| Airport standby | Contact the airline’s customer service desk at the airport and ask if they can add you to the standby list. |
| Online standby | For some airlines, you can add yourself to the standby list online through the airline’s website or mobile app. |
Payment and Fees
Payment for standby tickets must be made in advance, typically at the time of booking. The fare for a standby ticket is usually lower than the regular fare, but it may be subject to additional fees and restrictions. If a passenger is unable to secure a seat on the desired flight, they are entitled to a refund of the base fare. However, any additional fees, such as baggage fees or seat selection fees, may not be refundable.
Fees for Standby Tickets
In addition to the base fare, passengers may be required to pay the following fees:
- Airport security fee
- Checked baggage fee
- Seat selection fee
- Change fee (if the passenger needs to change their flight)
- Cancellation fee (if the passenger cancels their flight)
The amount of these fees varies depending on the airline and the specific route.
Forms of Payment
Standby tickets can typically be purchased using the following forms of payment:
- Credit card
- Debit card
- Cash
Some airlines may also accept other forms of payment, such as travel vouchers or gift cards.
Refundable and Non-Refundable Fees
The refundability of fees associated with standby tickets depends on the airline and the specific fee. Generally, the base fare is refundable if the passenger is unable to secure a seat on the desired flight. However, additional fees, such as baggage fees or seat selection fees, may not be refundable.
Waiting for a Seat
Once you’ve purchased your standby ticket, it’s time to wait for a seat to become available. Here are some tips for making the most of your wait:
Check the departure board frequently
Keep an eye on the departure board to see when your flight is scheduled to depart and whether there are any delays or changes. This will help you estimate how long you may need to wait.
Be flexible with your travel plans
If you’re not in a hurry, be prepared to wait longer for a seat. You may need to adjust your travel plans if there are no seats available on your preferred flight.
Be polite and respectful
Remember that the gate agents and airline staff are doing their best to help you. Be polite and respectful even if you’re frustrated with the wait. Your patience and understanding will be appreciated.
Take advantage of amenities
Many airports have amenities like restaurants, shops, and free Wi-Fi. Take advantage of these amenities while you wait for your seat. This can help you stay entertained and relaxed.
Get some work done
If you have work to do, bring your laptop or tablet and get some work done while you wait. This can be a productive way to use your time.
Bring snacks and drinks
Be prepared to wait for several hours, so bring snacks and drinks to keep you going. You can also purchase food and drinks at the airport, but it’s usually more expensive.
Expect the unexpected
Things don’t always go according to plan when you’re flying standby. Be prepared for delays, cancellations, and other unexpected events. Stay informed and be flexible with your travel plans so you can handle any surprises that come your way.
Boarding Priority
Once you’re successfully added to the standby list, you’ll be assigned a boarding priority. This number indicates your position in the queue and determines when you’ll be called to board the flight.
To determine your boarding priority, airlines consider several factors, including the type of ticket, elite status, and any special circumstances. Generally, higher-paying passengers and those with higher status will have a higher boarding priority.
Factors Affecting Boarding Priority
The following factors can affect your boarding priority:
| Factor | Impact on Priority |
|---|---|
| Ticket type | Higher-priced tickets typically have higher priority. |
| Elite status | Frequent flyers with elite status often receive higher priority. |
| Special circumstances | Passengers with disabilities or traveling with young children may be given priority boarding. |
Denied Boarding Compensation
Denied boarding compensation is a type of compensation that airlines are required to provide to passengers who are denied boarding due to overbooking. The amount of compensation that you are entitled to depends on the length of the delay, the distance of your flight, and the airline’s policies.
In addition to the compensation that you are entitled to, you may also be entitled to other benefits, such as a refund for your ticket, a free flight on a later date, or a hotel room if you are stranded overnight.
Compensation for Denied Boarding
The amount of compensation that you are entitled to for denied boarding depends on the following factors:
- The length of the delay
- The distance of your flight
- The airline’s policies
The following table shows the minimum amount of compensation that you are entitled to under the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) regulations:
| Length of Delay | Compensation |
|---|---|
| Up to 2 hours | Twice the one-way fare |
| 2 to 4 hours | Four times the one-way fare |
| More than 4 hours | Six times the one-way fare |
Note that the DOT’s regulations only apply to flights within the United States. If you are denied boarding on an international flight, you may be entitled to different compensation under the laws of the country where the flight is scheduled to depart.
Safety and Security Regulations
When purchasing standby tickets, it is essential to be aware of the safety and security regulations associated with air travel. These regulations are in place to ensure the safety of passengers and crew and to prevent terrorism and other security threats.
Carry-on Baggage
When purchasing standby tickets, you may be subject to additional security screening. This screening may include a thorough search of your carry-on baggage and personal belongings. Be sure to arrive at the airport early to allow ample time for security screening.
Checked Baggage
Checked baggage is also subject to security screening. Be sure to pack your checked baggage carefully and avoid packing any prohibited items. Prohibited items include sharp objects, firearms, explosives, and flammable materials.
Weapons and Ammunition
Weapons and ammunition are strictly prohibited on aircraft. If you are traveling with a weapon or ammunition, you must declare it to the security screener and follow their instructions.
Electronic Devices
Electronic devices, such as laptops, tablets, and cell phones, are allowed on aircraft. However, you may be asked to remove these devices from your carry-on baggage and place them in a bin for security screening.
Food and Beverages
Food and beverages are generally allowed on aircraft. However, some restrictions may apply to certain types of food and beverages. Be sure to check with the airline before bringing any food or beverages on board.
Medical Supplies
Medical supplies, such as medications and syringes, are allowed on aircraft. However, you may be asked to provide documentation from a medical professional to verify the need for these supplies.
Pets
Pets are generally not allowed on aircraft. However, some airlines may allow pets to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage. Be sure to check with the airline before traveling with a pet.
Identification
You will be required to provide identification when purchasing standby tickets. Acceptable forms of identification include a government-issued ID card, a passport, or a driver’s license.
Dress Code
There is no specific dress code for purchasing standby tickets. However, it is recommended that you dress comfortably and appropriately for the occasion.
| Item | Allowed |
|---|---|
| Carry-on Baggage | Yes |
| Checked Baggage | Yes |
| Weapons and Ammunition | No |
| Electronic Devices | Yes |
| Food and Beverages | Yes (with some restrictions) |
| Medical Supplies | Yes (with documentation) |
| Pets | Generally not allowed |
| Identification | Required |
| Dress Code | No specific requirements |
How to Purchase Standby Tickets
Standby tickets are a great way to save money on travel, but they can also be a bit confusing to purchase. Here are a few tips to help you get the best possible deal on standby tickets:
- Be flexible with your travel dates and times. Standby tickets are typically only available on certain flights, and the availability of those flights can change frequently. If you are flexible with your travel plans, you will have a better chance of finding standby tickets.
- Check in early. The earlier you check in, the better your chances are of getting a standby ticket. When you check in, be sure to ask the gate agent if there are any standby tickets available for your flight.
- Be prepared to wait. Standby tickets are not guaranteed, so you may have to wait for a while before you can get on a flight. Be sure to bring something to do to keep yourself occupied while you wait.
- Be patient. The gate agent will do their best to accommodate you, but there may be times when standby tickets are not available. If you are not able to get a standby ticket, be patient and try again on another flight.
