How can I increase my chances of getting on a standby flight?

You're more likely to get standby flights on less popular routes, off-peak travel seasons, or if you're a member of an airline's loyalty program. To improve your chances, arrive at the airport early and avoid checked luggage. Wait until the last minute in case your name is called.



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No standby seat is guaranteed—hence, the name “standby”—but there are certain ways you can increase your chances. You first need to request standby as soon as possible, since airlines typically prioritize standby fliers on a first-come-first-served basis.

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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.

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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.


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Standby fees typically cost $25 to $100, with most airlines charging a $75 same-day change fee. Because flying standby is more expensive and not guaranteed, new travelers may want to avoid standby travel until they have more experience interacting with airlines and navigating airports.

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In most cases, this means showing up a few hours before the first flight of the day. Because passengers are placed on the standby list on a first come, first served basis, this will maximize your chances of success.

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During boarding, as seats are available, names will be called in order from the list, and passengers will be issued seats for the flight. If the flight fills up before they get to your name, you'll be left at the gate watching the plane take off.

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We are seeing fewer last-minute deals than in years past, especially when it comes to flights, a Kayak spokesperson tells Travel + Leisure. That's not to say last-minute airfare deals are non-existent, though. It's definitely possible to score a cheap last-minute flight — if you're flexible.

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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.

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A standby list allows you to change to a different flight if a seat becomes available. It's an option if you're hoping for an earlier flight or if your flight has been canceled or delayed. Flying standby with us is free and easy, but there's no guarantee that you will get a seat while on a standby list.

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How to Get the Best Possible Seat on a Flight for Free
  1. Some “window” seats don't have windows. There's more to seat selection than window, middle, or aisle. ...
  2. Joining the loyalty program is worth it. ...
  3. Fly during off-peak hours. ...
  4. Fly an airline with open seating. ...
  5. Check in earlier than everyone else, and ask nicely.


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You will know if your cleared by the boarding pass they give you it will either be a standby pass (no boarding position or a boarding pass with position) if you get a standby pass check in at the counter when you get to your new next gate and let them know your there in case they cannot clef you right then.

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Keep in mind that seat availability for same day standby travel will not be known until thirty minutes before the flight departs. During that time, be sure to stay in the boarding area, wait for your name to be called, and respond right away when the gate agent calls your name.

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People flying standby go to check-in as usual and pass through security. At the gate, the waiting begins. Holders of standby tickets do not have a mandatory right to carriage. This means that they can only fly if all seats are not already occupied by passengers with regular tickets.

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Passengers who are not allocated seats at the time of check-in should retain their bags and go the to Flight Management Desk. Passengers who are not accepted for their flight and who wish to standby for a later flight on the same day will be automatically transferred to the next flight.

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Under the Travel Status dropdown for leisure travel process, selection that is available to IndiGo employees is “R2 standby”. R2 Standby means Leisure standby.

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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.

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