Why am I on standby but I bought a plane ticket?


Why am I on standby but I bought a plane ticket? As these reserve seats aren't available for advance seat selection, the airlines simply display them as occupied. Standby is the list you're on until you get your seat. Everyone on a BE fare is on the standby list until their seat is assigned.


Why is my seat being assigned at the gate?

There are a few reasons why an airline might assign seats at the gate. One reason is that they may not know the exact number of passengers who will be on the flight until the day of the flight. Another reason is that they may want to keep some seats open for passengers who are willing to pay a higher fare.


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.


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.


What does SBY mean on my plane ticket?

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.


Does seat assigned at gate mean standby?

It means exactly what it says: an agent will assign a seat to you at the gate. Chances are the flight is overbooked, so they're still figuring out who is flying and who is not.


Am I guaranteed a seat with basic economy?

Unless you pay for a seat, you'll be assigned one either at check-in or at boarding time. You are, however, guaranteed a seat as much as with any other ticket.