Note that this isn’t a fool-proof method of checking for standby seats. It’s not uncommon for airlines to overbook flights, so even if it doesn’t say “sold out,” there could still be a chance that it is.
Note that all standby passengers need to already have a confirmed ticket. Flyers with companion passes do not get the same benefits as the original (top tier) ticket holder they’re traveling with, which means they’re not eligible for standby. For instance, say you want to fly from Denver to Los Angeles. If another traveler is flying from Chicago to Los Angeles with a layover in Denver, they might miss their connection in Denver due to winter weather delays in Chicago, opening up a seat on the flight you want.
If there’s a big event in your destination city around the time you plan to arrive (like a big music festival or sporting event), you may have less of a chance of getting a seat. Trying to get a standby ticket around major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas is going be very difficult. Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be the least busy (and cheapest) days to fly, while Mondays and Fridays tend to be the busiest. [4] X Research source You can still try to fly standby during peak times and seasons, but the odds won’t be in your favor.
Check for delays before you go at https://www. fly. faa. gov/flyfaa/usmap. jsp.
If you’re already past security, you can talk to an agent at the gate of your current flight (or at the gate of the earlier flight you want to be on).
The fee is typically around $75 but it may be more or less depending on the price difference between the two flights. You’ll only pay this fee if you’ve been issued a ticket on your new standby flight. You’re more likely to get the extra seat if you frequently fly with Southwest (and have “elite” status) or if you purchased a more expensive “Anytime” or “Business Select” fare.
Be patient; don’t ask the gate agent about where you stand every 5 minutes! Download the Southwest mobile app and sign in with your reservation number or rapid rewards number in order to view the standby list from your phone.
