Originally Posted by
formeraa
Here's why standby policies are onerous: the airlines charge more for desirable peak flights (supply vs demand). So, savvy travelers used to book the next "off-peak" flight at a much lower fare and "standby" free for the earlier flight. As a result, airline loses difference between the higher fare and the lower fare.
I don't generally see a big difference between fares throughout the day. In any event a passenger booking the the cheaper flight is taking a risk that the more popular flight will be full and they will waste a lot of time or be left in the wrong place. I agree that Southwest's policy is the most onerous I know of. On most of my flights I can buy a ticket on DL for the same price and get more flexibility, but give up other things which may or may not matter.