Is flying standby a good idea?


Is flying standby a good idea? In summary, standby flights do offer some advantages. However, the booking should be weighed thoroughly. If you have the opportunity and enough time flexibility, it is well worth trying your luck with a standby flight ticket.


What is the standby duty at the airport?

Standby means that portion of a duty period during which a flight crewmember is subject to the control of the program manager and holds himself or herself in a condition of readiness to undertake a flight.


What is best way to get on a standby flight?

Traveling during off-peak times increases your chance of securing the standby flights you want. Airlines have fewer standby seats available during holidays and weekends. During quieter travel times, you can often call ahead and check standby availability before leaving for the airport.


How risky is standby?

While flying standby offers advantages, it is also never without risk. If you absolutely must be at your destination at a certain time, either plan for a sufficient buffer or refrain from flying standby in that case. Keep the right attitude: As mentioned, standby flying is almost like a game of chance.


What does being on standby mean?

on standby. : ready or available for immediate action or use.


Why do people choose to fly standby?

Standby is reserved for folks who are involuntarily bumped from their original flights, passengers who, for one reason or another, want to get on an earlier or later flight on the same-day of their original scheduled flight and airline employees and their families and eligible companions who fly for free or near free.


How often is standby successful?

The exact percentage of airline standby customers who get off the list and into seats on average varies depending on the airline, flight, and other factors. Generally speaking, however, it is estimated that around 50-60% of those listed as standbys are able to board their flights.


What is the best day to fly standby?

Tuesdays and Wednesday seem to be two of the best for flying standby. Simply, there are generally less travelers and more space on planes.


Is it worth it to fly standby?

Standby flights are in fact quite cheap. Just about 10% of the normal price must usually be paid. So a standby flight can be quite financially rewarding. Flexibility: while it is advisable for most travelers to book their ticket early, people flying standby better take their time.


Who goes first on standby list?

Every airline has its own priority system, but in general, the order for boarding standby passengers is as follows:
  • Full-fare passengers.
  • Commuting flight crews.
  • Standby passengers from the airline (in order of seniority or time of check-in)
  • Buddy pass travelers.
  • Standby passengers from other airlines.


Does flying standby save you money?

While flying standby used to be a cheap travel option, today you can expect to pay a standby fee in addition to your ticket cost. Most airlines charge such fees, although first-class travelers, business class passengers, and elite program members often enjoy free standby options.


Should I fly in the morning or at night?

The best time of day to fly is in the morning, before 8 a.m. Early morning flights are less likely to be delayed or go through turbulence, and they're often cheaper.


Can I drop my bags at the airport the night before?

Of course! Some airlines do offer the option to check your luggage the day before your flight. It's a convenient way to save time on the day of your departure. However, not all airlines provide this service, so keep in mind to check with your specific airline to see if it's available.


What does SBY mean on a boarding pass?

The letters SBY appear on a boarding pass when your boarding is subject to space and dependent on the waiting list at the airport to confirm your seat.


Is it better to buy flights in the morning or at night?

The cheapest day to book your ticket is Saturday and Sunday, but the cheapest day to actually fly on is Tuesday. And the cheapest time of day to physically book your ticket is between 6AM and 12PM.