Originally Posted by
flying_geek
Actually in most cases there is a small fare difference between Y and J - and non-revs on stdby often have a J and a Y standby ticket - if the J can't be used then Y one is used (assuming there is space) and you get to refund the ticket you didn't use.
For DL at least they're entitled to best available. Other carriers may have other policies. Also there's differences between employee non-rev and buddy pass non-rev travel.