The chance of securing standby flights on earlier flights is higher than on flights later in the day, so get to the airport at least two hours before the flight you're hoping to catch. Travel Alone. The chance a flight will have multiple standby seats is slim at best.

In 2026, getting a standby flight is significantly more difficult than it was in the "golden age" of travel, largely due to sophisticated airline algorithms that ensure planes fly at nearly 100% capacity. "Voluntary standby"—where you simply hope for an earlier flight—is now mostly a perk reserved for high-tier loyalty members or those with "Flexible" or "Business" class tickets. For most budget travelers, airlines now prefer you to use "Same-Day Confirmed" changes, which usually involve a fee. The most common way to end up on a standby list in 2026 is "involuntary," such as when your original flight is canceled or delayed. While the United and Delta apps have made it easier to join a list digitally, the actual "clearance" of a seat is rare on popular routes. If you have checked bags, the process is even more complex, as many 2026 security protocols prevent a passenger from flying on a different plane than their luggage.