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Catch the earlier flight, minus the fee

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Catch the earlier flight, minus the fee

Q. Which airlines do not charge a fee for flying stand by on an earlier flight?  I occasionally get to a connecting airport and have the time to make an earlier connection, however, I always get the "well, for $50 you can fly earlier..."  

A. As we read the rules, Airtran, JetBlue and US Airways will allow you to take an earlier flight on the same day, on a non-confirmed standby basis only, without charge. However, most airlines now charge a fee, typically $50 for domestic flights, if you wish to change your flight on the same day of travel and get a confirmed seat. Southwest Airlines’ official policy is a bit different: there’s no “charge” as such to change your flight, but you’re supposed to pay the then-current last minute “walk up” fare (so if your original fare was $39 and the current last minute fare that day is $109, you’ll pay the $70 difference). We’ve heard, however, that Southwest ticket agents often “neglect” to collect the fare difference.


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I wanted to take an earlier flight out of Denver but because my luggage was checked through to my final destination, United wouldn't even entertain allowing me to fly earlier, not even for a fee. So I was stuck with a 3 hour layover there.
by tj on Wednesday, July 28, 2010
I have flown on United like this and didn't get charged anything.
by purplepenguin on Wednesday, July 28, 2010
I am happy to be here thanks.
by Bobcat on Wednesday, July 28, 2010
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