Will an airline let you get on an earlier flight?

Can You Switch to an Earlier Flight: A Guide to Airline Policies

Airlines typically offer the option of standby for an earlier flight, allowing passengers to potential board a departing flight prior to their scheduled departure. However, airline policies and procedures for standby vary, so it’s important to understand the process before attempting to switch flights.

Availability and Procedures

The success of switching to an earlier flight depends primarily on the availability of seats on the desired flight. Airlines generally prioritize passengers with higher status or who have purchased more expensive tickets. Additionally, some airlines may restrict standby for certain routes or during peak travel periods.

To determine if standby is possible, passengers can check their airline app for available options. If no earlier flights are showing as available, it’s advisable to inquire directly with the gate agent before their scheduled departure.

Inquiring with the Gate Agent

Approaching the gate agent is the most direct way to inquire about standby for an earlier flight. Be prepared to state your desired flight and seat preference. The agent will check for available seats and inform you if you can be accommodated on the earlier flight.

Additional Considerations

When attempting to switch to an earlier flight, it’s important to keep in mind the following considerations:

• Wait time: Standby passengers may have to wait for several hours until a seat becomes available.
• Baggage: If your baggage has already been checked in, you may need to retrieve it and re-check it for the earlier flight.
• Fees: Some airlines may charge a fee for standby or for changing flights.
• Priority: Passengers with higher status and those who have purchased more expensive tickets may have priority for standby.

Conclusion

Switching to an earlier flight is possible with most airlines, but it’s subject to availability and airline procedures. By checking your airline app or inquiring with the gate agent, you can determine if standby is an option for your desired flight. Be prepared for potential wait times and other considerations, and remember that priority is typically given to passengers with higher status or those who have purchased more expensive tickets.