In 2026, getting on "standby" typically means you are waiting for a seat to open up on a flight other than your originally booked one. To do this, you generally must already have a confirmed ticket for a flight on the same day. Most major airlines allow you to request "Same-Day Standby" via their mobile app or at a self-service kiosk at the airport, often for a fee ($50–$75), though this fee is frequently waived for elite frequent flyer members. Once you are on the list, you head to the gate of the desired flight and wait for the gate agent to call your name, which usually happens 10 to 15 minutes before departure after all ticketed passengers have boarded. Another form of standby is for "Buddy Pass" holders (friends/family of airline employees), who travel on a "space-available" basis. These travelers must follow a strict dress code and have the lowest priority, meaning they only get a seat if the flight is not sold out and every other revenue and "confirmed" standby passenger has been accommodated.