Do Airlines Still Offer Standby Options?

Official cheap “standby fares” purchased at the last minute and good on the next available seat have been dead for more than 20 years. However, most airlines do allow travelers to change from one flight to another on the day of departure. As with all policies, the rules vary by airline. Some require that the alternate flight be within 3 hours of the original flight. Some charge a standby fee ranging from $25 to $100 (far less than the usual ticket exchange fee of $150 on most airlines). Some fares prohibit standby altogether. To understand the standby rules pertaining to your ticket please contact your Travel-On agent.