🛫 How to Fly Standby on United Airlines: A Complete Guide
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Flying standby can be a smart and flexible travel option—especially if you’re trying to catch an earlier flight, travel on a budget, or take advantage of unexpected open seats. United Airlines offers standby options for select passengers, but there are rules, eligibility criteria, and processes you’ll need to know.
So, if you’re wondering how to fly standby on United Airlines, this guide walks you through the process, eligibility, and tips to improve your chances of getting a seat.
✳️ What Does Flying Standby Mean?
Flying standby means you’re waiting for an open seat on a flight that you’re not ticketed for. Instead of having a confirmed reservation, you’ll be put on a list and assigned a seat only if one becomes available at departure time.
There are two main types of standby:
- Same-day standby: You’re already booked on a United flight and want to fly earlier or later the same day.
- Non-revenue or buddy pass standby: Employees or eligible companions fly on standby using special passes.
✅ Who Can Fly Standby on United?
Not everyone can fly standby. Here’s who’s eligible:
1. MileagePlus Premier Members
If you’re a Premier Silver, Gold, Platinum, or 1K member, you can request same-day standby for free on United-operated flights.
2. Full-fare Ticket Holders
Some passengers traveling on fully refundable tickets may be eligible for standby at no additional cost.
3. United Credit Cardholders
Certain MileagePlus Chase cardholders can access standby travel, especially when paired with elite status.
4. Employees & Their Companions
United employees and eligible friends or family members can fly standby with a non-revenue (NRSA) or buddy pass—but they’re lowest on the priority list.
📝 How to Request Standby on United Airlines
Here’s a step-by-step guide for going standby with United:
🔁 For Same-Day Standby:
- Book a United-operated flight.
You must be flying on a ticketed United flight (not codeshare or partner). - Check your eligibility.
Log into your MileagePlus account to verify if you’re eligible for same-day standby. - Request standby online or in the app.
- Go to “Manage Trip” or “My Trips” in the United app or website.
- Select “Same-Day Change” and see if an alternate flight is available.
- If changes aren’t available, choose “Join standby list.”
- Arrive early at the airport.
Get to your departure gate at least 30–45 minutes early. - Watch the standby list.
You can track your position on the standby list on the United app or gate display. - Wait to be called.
If there’s an available seat at boarding time, and your name is next in line, the gate agent will assign you a seat.
💰 What Does Standby Cost?
Same-day standby for Premier Members: FREE.
- Same-day standby for non-elites: Typically $75, but currently waived for most travelers (as of 2025).
- Non-rev/buddy pass users: Pay reduced fares or service charges, depending on relationship and route.
🔼 Standby Priority List
Standby travelers are cleared based on priority level, not order of arrival. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Full-fare paying customers with status
- MileagePlus Premier members (1K, Platinum, Gold, Silver)
- Chase United cardholders (if eligible)
- Standard economy ticket holders
- Employees and non-rev passengers
Note: The earlier you request standby, the better your position—but elite status always comes first.
🔄 Same-Day Change vs. Standby
Don’t confuse same-day change with standby:
| Feature | Same-Day Change | Standby |
|---|---|---|
| Confirmed seat | Yes (if available) | No – only if there’s space at gate |
| Cost | Free or $75 (waived for elites) | Free for elites, $75 for others |
| Flexibility | More control | More uncertainty |
| Book via | Website, app, or phone | Website, app, or gate agent |
If a confirmed seat is available, it’s always better to go for same-day change rather than standby.
📱 Tips for Flying Standby on United
- Use the United app – Track flights, monitor standby lists, and check availability easily.
- Arrive early – The earlier you request, the higher your list placement (among non-status passengers).
- Avoid peak travel times – Standby is harder on busy routes or holidays.
- Be flexible – Try alternate airports (e.g., Newark vs. JFK), and fly at less popular hours.
- Travel light – Having carry-on luggage only improves your odds and boarding speed.
- Don’t miss your original flight – Unless you confirm your change or standby, missing your booked flight may cancel your reservation.
✈️ Final Thoughts
Flying standby on United Airlines is a great way to maximize flexibility and sometimes even get home earlier. While it’s not guaranteed and depends on seat availability, it can work well—especially if you’re a MileagePlus elite or using a buddy pass.
Remember, use the United app, check your eligibility, and stay near the gate. If a seat opens up, you might just be on your way!
Need help checking your standby status or planning a flexible trip with United? I can guide you step-by-step through the process—just ask!
