Most airlines allow for standby vouchers on existing reservations for domestic flights and sometimes international flights. Standby vouchers allow a traveler to have the option to get on a new flight to the same destination if there are open seats on the flight. Oftentimes, travelers aren't guaranteed on the flight until the flight is boarding. A few simple steps can make the standby process run smoothly and help guarantee optimal results.
To purchase a standby voucher, have a same-day travel ticket. Standby vouchers can only be bought from the same airline that booked the original ticket, or possibly on a partner airline, depending on the airline.
Review flight options to the destination city on the internet, on the in-terminal departure monitors, or with an airline attendant. Upon deciding upon a better option for travel, have the airline attendant place your name on the standby list. This is not guarantee to board this actual flight, but rather, you will have to wait to see about availability until the flight is boarding.
Most standby passengers will hear if room is available on the selected flight during the boarding process. Be ready to board if your name is called. If your name is not called and there is no room on the plane, you will have the option of getting your name on another standby list or waiting for your original flight.
Most airlines do not collect the mandatory standby fee until you are confirmed on the new flight and boarding. In 2010 fees ran from $50 to $75 for domestic flights. Have a valid method of payment (cash or credit card) available for the correct amount when your name is called, as it might be right before the plane is schedule to depart the gate. It is the airline's responsibility to let the original flight know you will not be aboard.
