Due to falling profits and rising fuel prices, the airline industry has contracted, and few last minute seats are available for standby travelers. This is an ideal option for travelers who want to arrive a few hours earlier or later at their destination. Most airlines charge a fare of R$25 to 100 for confirmed same-day flight changes; standby is technically an "unconfirmed" same-day flight change, which means your chances of getting a seat are not guaranteed. Here are some tips for optimizing your experience.
Steps
Step 1. Check your company policy
They have different stipulations and fares for standby passengers, and it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with these details in advance. This service is not offered by all airlines.
Step 2. Buy the cheapest ticket to your desired destination, if you haven't already
Almost all lines stipulate that you must have purchased a ticket to be eligible for standby. If you don't have one yet, and you don't have a preference for airlines, look for one that offers the service without additional fees.
- Some airlines have restrictions on ticket type, or loyalty program status, that make you eligible for standby, so please read the policies carefully.
- Some airlines offer standby only as an option if confirmed changes to same-day flights are not possible.
- Most airlines only offer standby flights to the same destination as the original ticket. Some make exceptions for nearby airports, but this flexibility may not be guaranteed.
Step 3. Pack your things in a carry-on if possible
Your chances of getting a flight on standby are greater if you don't have background baggage. Also, due to the possibility of not getting a seat, it's nice to have your luggage at all times.
Step 4. The day before or on the day of your flight, check the airline's website, or call, for seat availability and flight information
Find the earliest flight for which you want to wait the standby system and check if there are seats available. If not, find another one.
- If you want to make sure you get that seat, call the airline and make the same-day flight change for a fee.
- Do not check third-party websites as they do not have the most current flight information.
Step 5. Go to the airport at least two hours before the desired standby flight
When checking in, let the agent know that you have a ticket for another flight but want to fly standby on that one. If your order complies with company policy, it will be placed on the standby list.
Step 6. Go through security, and wait at the desired flight gate
Notify gate agents that you are waiting for available standby seats.
Step 7. If you get a seat, congratulations
Enjoy the flight. If not, go to the original flight gate. You can still enter it to reach your destination.