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.
That's why there are strict standby rules. BTW, WN has the MOST strict standby rules. If your flight isn't showing a significant delay, you can't standby without paying the fare difference. Using your logic, if US is a garbage airline, then WN is a flying garbage dump.
I understand why they are onerous. So ifthat is such a concern, they can easily have some logic which checks for SIGNIFICANT differential in demand /price levels between flights and maybe tack on a standby charge the amount which can vary according to the differential.
Here is also a counterpoint. if ,more people start doing that, guess what, more people who do so are at the risk of getting stranded and will have to wait hours at the airport. So there is already a deterrant for more people deciding to book a cheaper flight and then trying to go standby. That number is so small as evident on airtran. I have no problem with a nominal standby fee with it being free for elite members.
As far as the comparison of US Air to Southwest, I dont base my assessment of an airline being garbage based on one factor. At least Southwest will let you can cancel without penalty and you apply that money to a future flight. And if you look at US Air's move up policy, it is asinine. I can understand them reluctant to move up someone from a one stop to a direct flight, but they have a problem wit hthe opposite too?