How Much Does it Cost to Fly Standby on Southwest Airlines?

Flying standby on Southwest Airlines can be an economical option for those who are flexible with their travel plans. However, the cost and availability of flying standby can vary based on various factors. In this article, we will delve into the details of flying standby on Southwest, including eligibility, the cost implications, and the overall process.

Eligibility and Key Details

Not all ticket types are eligible for standby travel. Certain full-fare tickets such as Business Select or Anytime tickets allow for standby travel, but if you have a Wanna Get Away ticket, you generally cannot take up standby space. Standby travel involves checking in for your original flight and then requesting to be placed on the standby list for a different flight. The priority for standby passengers is determined based on their ticket fare class and the time they check in. Higher fare class passengers are more likely to secure a spot on the flight.

It's important to check the most up-to-date information on airline policies. You can do this by visiting Southwest's official website or contacting their customer service. This ensures that you have the latest and accurate information.

Cost of Flying Standby

As of the latest information, if you have a non-standby ticket and you want to fly standby for a different flight, you might need to pay a fee. For example, you can fly standby for 50 dollars at the gate for a specific flight. However, the availability of standby seats is not guaranteed and is typically only offered on the day of travel.

In certain cases, depending on the fare class of your ticket, you might be able to participate in a "free" standby on an earlier flight. For instance, if you are in the lowest fare class, you might need to pay to upgrade to a higher fare class (like Full Fare or Walk-Up) to secure a spot on an earlier flight. Sometimes, the gate agent will allow you to board an earlier flight, but this is not a guarantee.

SwA does not offer standby tickets in a formal sense. However, it sometimes allows freedom for lower-fare passengers to stand by for earlier flights depending on availability and gate agent discretion.

Specific Guidelines and Changes

As of March 12, 2020, for travel after August 10, 2020, the rules regarding standby travel have become more complex. If you purchase a ticket after this date, you may be required to pay any additional government taxes or fees. These fees include:

Segment Fees: A federal segment fee of 4.10 is imposed on each additional flight segment if you change from a non-stop flight to one with more than one segment. Passenger Facility Charges (PFCs): Fares at each airport can be up to 18 for a layover longer than four hours. There is also an additional 5.60 security fee imposed. Definition of a Flight Segment: A flight segment is defined as a takeoff and landing. Therefore, a stopover can count as a segment.

A-list frequent flyers can still check in and fly standby for free through December 31, 2020. However, for those with Wanna Get Away tickets, flying standby on an earlier flight will require them to pay the fare difference.

Conclusion

Flying on standby can be a viable option if you have the flexibility to rearrange your travel plans. However, it's crucial to understand the eligibility criteria, potential costs, and the dynamic availability of these seats. Always check the most recent information available directly from Southwest Airlines to ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date details.