Q&A for How to Fly Standby

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  • Question
    If I want to fly at the last minute without a ticket, how can I get an available seat?
    Community Answer
    Check with the airline staff. Catching a last-minute flight without a ticket is much easier if you just have carry-on luggage.
  • Question
    Can I bring empanadas on the plane?
    Community Answer
    No.
  • Question
    Do they have standby in Australian airports?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can get standby in Australian airports. Many people have done it, including me!
  • Question
    Will the flight agent call my name when it is time to get on board?
    Community Answer
    Usually, your name will appear on an electronic board or TV that is located somewhere around the flight attendant desk.
  • Question
    Is standby only for the same day?
    Community Answer
    Generally, yes, but in cases of impending weather or other expected delays, you may be able to get a flight a day in advance.
  • Question
    Can I fly standby to international destinations?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can, although each airline has its own way of managing international standbys, so you'll want to do some research on the particular airline you plan on using.
  • Question
    How do they get your luggage on the right flight?
    Community Answer
    Presumably the same way as they would for any other type of flight, but if you're switching between flights, it's better to just bring hand-luggage.
  • Question
    Can I bring my mistress on board?
    Community Answer
    Yes, if she has a ticket.
  • Question
    Can a kid fly standby?
    Community Answer
    It depends on the policy of the airline.
  • Question
    Is the process the same if I am using a stand-by ticket that was given to me by a friend that works for an airline?
    Community Answer
    It depends on the specific airline. Every airline has their own policies regarding standby tickets and employee-issued "buddy passes." See the first step in this article.
  • Question
    Can I fly standby when purchasing through Expedia?
    Community Answer
    Not really since they don't have the most up-to-date flight information at the last minute.
  • Question
    If I didn't get on a flight using standby, what happens to my luggage?
    Community Answer
    Your luggage will not be checked in if you are not offered a seat. There is no way the crew can check in your luggage if you don't already have a boarding pass.
  • Question
    How much does it cost to fly standby?
    Community Answer
    It varies, but it is almost always significantly less than booking in advance.
  • Question
    Can I standby on a flight the night before my morning flight?
    Community Answer
    Yes. Just call the airline in advance and consider arriving at the airport the evening before.
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