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Ddub1214 · January 8th, 2008, 03:35

Flying standby is an amazing benefit and definitely not overrated, but at the same time, its easy and great when you get on, but can be a really long day when things don't go to plan. Sometimes you have to get creative and be really patient. The biggest thing I've learned is that its not what flight you want to take thats important, its what your backup is if you don't make it on.

Just on my last trip to Amsterdam over the holidays, I went from SFO-LAX-ORD-AMS, and on the way back AMS-IAD-DEN-SFO because of delays and cancellations. On a positive note, I got first class on both the transatlantic legs and paid less than $200 total. I've also spent 6 hours waiting at PHX because every flight on two airlines was full but luckily got the last seat on the last flight out. Sometimes you just have to get lucky.

As far as spouses, parents, and kids, different airlines have different policies but they have the same nonrev benefits you do, though some airlines charge a small fee. There are also ZED (reduced fares calculated by mileage) and ID90's (90% off of full fare) that let you travel on carriers you don't work with. I believe with most airlines you get charged a fee for business or first class, but even on long flights its not much, especially compared to the full fare. I also get a few buddy passes for friends and family, though it seemed like everybody wanted to travel for cheap right before thanksgiving or xmas.

Bottom line nonrevving is great if you're smart about it and have a backup plan. You'll have some bad days occasionally, but just think of all the money you're saving!

January 8th, 2008, 03:35	#14
Ddub1214 Newbie Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: ORD Posts: 16	Re: Flying Standby Overrated Flying standby is an amazing benefit and definitely not overrated, but at the same time, its easy and great when you get on, but can be a really long day when things don't go to plan. Sometimes you have to get creative and be really patient. The biggest thing I've learned is that its not what flight you want to take thats important, its what your backup is if you don't make it on. Just on my last trip to Amsterdam over the holidays, I went from SFO-LAX-ORD-AMS, and on the way back AMS-IAD-DEN-SFO because of delays and cancellations. On a positive note, I got first class on both the transatlantic legs and paid less than $200 total. I've also spent 6 hours waiting at PHX because every flight on two airlines was full but luckily got the last seat on the last flight out. Sometimes you just have to get lucky. As far as spouses, parents, and kids, different airlines have different policies but they have the same nonrev benefits you do, though some airlines charge a small fee. There are also ZED (reduced fares calculated by mileage) and ID90's (90% off of full fare) that let you travel on carriers you don't work with. I believe with most airlines you get charged a fee for business or first class, but even on long flights its not much, especially compared to the full fare. I also get a few buddy passes for friends and family, though it seemed like everybody wanted to travel for cheap right before thanksgiving or xmas. Bottom line nonrevving is great if you're smart about it and have a backup plan. You'll have some bad days occasionally, but just think of all the money you're saving!