How to Fly stand-by

Need to leave town earlier or later than planned? Flying stand-by is not as simple as it used to be. Learn how to fly stand by - you never know when it may be necessary.

You Will Need

* An original airline booking or ticket

* Extra time and patience

* A willingness to pay an extra fee

Step 1: Have a ticket

Have a ticket. Most airlines no longer allow stand-by travel unless the flyer already has a ticket, and it is typically allowed only for flights to the same destination.

*Tip: If you are 18 to 22, check out Air Tran's special standby program for college age travelers. It allows you to fly standby without having a ticket.

Step 2: Call ahead

Before you even think about going to the airport, call your airline to get their policy on flying stand-by and to see if there are seats available on the flight you want.

Step 3: Prepare to pay

Prepare to pay a fee for the privilege of flying standby; most airlines charge one, though some waive it for their frequent flyers.

*Tip: Most airlines only allow stand-by travel on the same day as your original flight, and some impose time restrictions, like only allowing you to rebook on a flight within six to 12 hours.

Step 4: Get on the list

At the airport, go to the check-in counter and ask to be put on a list for stand-by flights to your destination. Seats are awarded on a fist-come, first-served basis, so plan on getting to the airport early.

*Tip: Remember, you can't check luggage when you fly standby, so don't over-pack.

Step 5: Double-check

Head to your gate and double-check with the gate attendant that you are on the standby list.

Step 6: Stay put

Once you're at the gate, stay put. If a seat becomes available while you're waiting for your double latte, it will go to the next person on the list.

Fact:

U.S. airplanes have gone from an average of 62% full in 1990 to 81% full in 2007.