Standby Passenger
What is a Standby Passenger?
A standby passenger is someone who is waiting for an open seat on a flight without a confirmed booking for that specific departure. Standby status can result from missed connections, voluntary flight changes, or flexible airline tickets that allow same-day changes.
Many airlines offer standby travel for business travelers who need to adjust their schedules at the last minute. However, standby passengers are not guaranteed a seat and are prioritized based on fare class, loyalty status, or airline policies.
Examples Of Standby Passenger Situations
1.
Missed Flight
A Corporate Traveler Misses Their Booked Flight And Is Placed On The Standby List For The Next Available Departure.
2.
Voluntary Flight Change
An Employee With A Flexible Business Ticket Voluntarily Moves To A Later Flight And Goes On Standby For An Upgrade.
3.
Airline Staff Travel
An Airline Staff Member Traveling On A Non-Revenue Ticket Waits As A Standby Passenger For An Available Seat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Standby Passenger
1.
How does a traveler get on the standby list?
Travelers can request standby at the airport check-in counter or gate, depending on the airline’s policy and ticket type.
2.
Is standby travel free for corporate travelers?
It depends on the ticket type. Some business-class or corporate fares allow free same-day standby, while economy fares may require a fee.
3.
How are standby passengers prioritized?
Priority is usually given to elite frequent flyers, full-fare ticket holders, and airline employees, followed by other passengers.
4.
What happens if a standby passenger doesn’t get a seat?
They may have to wait for the next flight, rebook at an additional cost, or purchase a new ticket depending on airline rules.
5.
Can corporate travelers use standby for earlier flights?
Yes, many business travelers use standby to catch earlier flights if their schedules change, subject to airline policy.