How can I get standby for free for an earlier United flight from my connecting city?
I'm flying United from DTW to ORD to SFO. However, I have a 3 hour layover at ORD and, in that time window, there are 2-3 earlier flights that depart to SFO from ORD. If I'm not mistaken, United charges $75 normally to be on the standby list for earlier flights or something like that. Are there any tricks that would allow me to get on one of those earlier connecting flights for free (or a lower fee than $75)?
(Note: I don't need a response about why the standby fee exists.)
Best Answer
Officially it depends on your status. Here are the rules: https://www.united.com/web/en-US/content/reservations/samedaychange.aspx
This being said, you can always ask. If your original flight is oversold or if the expect a large rebooking crowd because of an earlier delay and there are plenty of open seats on your original flight, they will probably take you.
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Can I go standby on an earlier flight?
Join the standby list for an earlier flight. If you can't confirm a seat on another flight or can't change without a fee, you can always join the standby list for an earlier flight for free. If your itinerary includes several flight segments, you'll need to stand by for each flight individually.How do I get on standby list United?
Eligible customers can add themselves to the standby list at an airport kiosk by selecting "View Flight Options" when reviewing their itinerary or by contacting a United airport representative.How can I get on an earlier flight without paying extra?
Approach the gate agent and ask about miss-connects and inform the agent that you're on the later flight (it will be very helpful if your ticketed flight is full or oversold). Putting you on the earlier flight allows the airline to accommodate the \u201cmiss-connects\u201d onto your later flight without hassle or cost to anyone.Does United allow free standby?
1, 2021, all United customers will be eligible for free standby, eliminating the current $75 fee to confirm a standby seat. Flyers can add their name to the standby list up to 30 minutes before departure for domestic flights and up to one hour for international flights via United's app, website, or the airport.How to Fly Standby: Our MOST ASKED Question!
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