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If you've made a flight reservation and suddenly need to alter your plans, opting for standby can provide a viable solution. However, standby policies vary among airlines. When flying with Delta Air Lines, there are specific terms and conditions to meet to determine your eligibility for this service. Fortunately, this article is designed to offer insights into Delta's policies. Continue reading for comprehensive answers to all your queries regarding the Delta standby list.
Procedures
What does it entail to be on standby for a flight?
Being on standby implies that you're on a list to switch to another flight if a seat becomes available. Typically, you can only request standby for another flight within 24 hours of your initially booked flight. This service is generally reserved for last-minute adjustments. While awaiting an available seat, you can retain your original booking. This ensures that even if a seat doesn't become available, you can still utilize your previously reserved seat for your journey.
- Delta Air Lines provides this service at no charge. You can request standby via phone, the airline's app or website, and at the gate's assistance desk.
What motivates someone to fly standby?
Passengers opt for flying standby when they aim to switch to a different flight at the last moment. Previously, flying standby was an opportunity for individuals seeking to potentially secure a seat on a budget-friendly, underbooked flight. Nowadays, most airlines, including Delta, extend this service exclusively to individuals who have already purchased a ticket. If you find the need to switch to another flight within 24 hours of your initial booking, request to be added to the standby list.
How is the Delta standby list operated?
Delta provides the option to fly standby only if their Same-Day Confirmed service isn't accessible. If you wish to modify your ticket within 24 hours, the airline will initially check for available seats on alternative flights. Should seats be available, the airline will impose a $75 fee for changing your flight, and you'll be confirmed for the new one. If no seats are available, you'll have the opportunity to join the standby list at no charge. While awaiting your ticket alteration, you'll retain your seat on the original flight. Note that if you wish to alter your flight before the 24-hour threshold, you can do so and confirm a new seat via the Delta website at any time.
- For non-members, Silver Medallion Members, and General SkyMiles Members, flight selection must be earlier than the originally booked one. Diamond, Platinum, and Gold Medallion Members have the flexibility to choose any flight on that day.
- Delta's standby service is accessible for all flight classes except Basic Economy.
- You can join the standby list for multi-segment flights, but you'll need to sign up for the standby list for each segment individually.
How can I join the Delta standby list?
Utilize the Fly Delta app or contact a Delta representative. To enlist in the standby list via the app, download and launch the Fly Delta app. Then, select 'Same-Day Change.' You'll be presented with a list of flights to either confirm a new seat or opt for standby. If seats are available for confirmation, a $75 fee is required for seat change via the Same-Day Confirmed service. If seats aren't available, you'll be added to the standby list at no cost.
- To join the Delta standby list over the phone with a Delta representative, dial 800-221-1212.
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To be included in Delta's standby list, use the Fly Delta app or contact a representative within 24 hours of your flight. As a Medallion Member or General SkyMiles Member, you can select an earlier flight. Diamond, Platinum, and Gold members can choose any flight on that day. If seats are available for confirmation, a fee is applicable. Otherwise, you'll be placed on standby without charge while retaining your original seat.
How soon can you join the standby list?
You can join the standby list within 24 hours of your flight. Before that, you can still modify your ticket to a different flight via the Delta website. To join the standby list, locate the initial email containing your ticket and confirmation number. Then, navigate to the Delta website and click on 'My Trips.' Choose your trip by providing either your name and confirmation number, your credit/debit card number, or your ticket number from the flight receipt email. Once you input the details, proceed to change or cancel your flight.
- Delta doesn't impose change fees on flights originating from North America for Delta One, Delta Premium Select, First Class, Delta Comfort+, and Main Cabin ticket holders.
- Basic Economy ticket holders can't alter their ticket unless they possess a Basic Economy waiver.
- If you wish to switch your ticket to a more expensive flight, you'll need to cover the fare difference.
How does the Same-Day Confirmed service function?
This option enables you to switch your flight to another seat within your fare class. Instead of being placed on a waiting list, this service ensures that you're accommodated on your preferred flight if a seat is available. The service incurs a $75 fee for non-Delta members, while Diamond, Platinum, and Gold Medallion members can utilize it for free.
- This service is applicable only for domestic flights.
- You must select a flight scheduled for the same day as your original ticket.
- You can only access the Same-Day Confirmed service within 24 hours of your flight.
How can I join the Delta Same-Day Standby Upgrade list?
Enroll via the app or with assistance from a Delta representative. Firstly, verify if your flight qualifies for the service. Visit delta.com/us/en/change-cancel/same-day-flight-change and navigate to 'Same-Day Flight Change.' Click the provided link and scroll to 'Same-Day Standby Upgrade.' Here, you'll find a list of eligible flights. Ensure that you're within 24 hours of your flight. If you meet these criteria, you can pay a fee to potentially upgrade to a higher flight class, such as Delta Comfort+ or First Class. To proceed, utilize the Fly Delta app or contact a Delta representative.
- To ascertain the fee amount, connect with a Delta representative. You can reach them via Delta's customer service hotline at 800-221-1212.
