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So tried to standby on some ex JFK flights on Saturday that were zeroed out in coach so no same day confirmed avail.

4 out of the 5 agents I asked - sky club, priority ticketing desk, gates said standby doesn't exist anymore.

The numbness cost me the ability to get to my destination five hours earlier -- flight I wanted was initially full with lots of seat requests but ended up clearing all standbys and some nonrevs.

I didn't because aren't refused to add until 2 min before the door closed at which time the computer supposedly wouldn't let them add.

The scene at the various gates looked like the images of desperation in a Sally Struthers commercial but instead of food all they wanted was a faux leather seat.

The cynical part of me says the JFK agents don't want the elites on the flight standby list to make sure nonrev friends have s better shot but I will give the benefit of the doubt for a moment.

Anyone else have trouble with the simple request of getting on the standby list -- even if it may be a long shot.?