US Airways Dividend Miles (Pre-FlightFund Merger) - Standby when overbooked

Hey all, I need an opinion on something and I'm coming to the experts.

I've got 2 friends that are flying PHL-LAS this Saturday. They wanted to book on the same flight as their family (they booked a week earlier) but that flight (10A) was pricing out $200pp more, so they booked the 2P flight and are hoping to standby.

Now here's where things get sticky. The 10A flight is currently oversold by 1, but I'm guessing they may still have a chance if some no-shows happen. They're going down with the rest of the family early so they'll be at the airport no matter what.

What's the best way for their chances for standby to be best? I know they'll have to pay the $25 standby fee if they get on the plane, but according to Res they'll be out $50 total. Should they not pay the standby fee until they're able to be confirmed or does that hurt their chances?

Thanks all for the help! I'll be down there on a refundable fare so I can make sure they are being taken care of properly.

-JC

Passengers must pay the $25 fee just to be put on the standby list; this fee is non-refundable whether they get on the plane or not.

That said, if the flight is oversold I'd advise against them even trying to stand by, especially if they have no status with US.

The $25 is a nusiance but, setting that aside, the chances are reasonably good that they'd make it if it is only oversold by 1.