[Moderator's Note - Thanks to the OP for writing this; as of 5/22/2008, United changed the confirmed standby fee from $50 to $75. I've updated this first post accordingly]


I've seen several posts lately that relate to the $75 confirmed standby, including one of my own. It seems that UA doesn't publicize it particularly well. So, here's my attempt to consolidate the relevant information and make it available to FT as a resource for UA passengers.

Updated: 05/22/08

United.com's information:
http://www.united.com/page/article/0,6722,51160,00.html

What does this fee do?
It enables passengers traveling on domestic UA/UX/Ted flights to confirm a seat on a different flight from their originally ticketed one.

How much is the fee?
$75.

How can I pay the fee?
You can pay over the phone or at the airport.

When can I do this?
Within three hours of the flight you want to take. So if your original flight is at 11PM, and you want to take the 2PM, you can call at 11AM and get a seat.

What inventory does this come out of?
The confirmed standby comes out of "H" inventory.

Can I confirm more than three hours out?
Your experience may vary. Officially, no. But a helpful and willing agent may make an exception for you.

Can I change the routing?
No. The rules state you must standby for flights on the originally confirmed routing. As with some other exceptions, a nice agent may be able to do this for you.

Can I still standby for free at the gate?
Yes. You would still clear about 20 minutes out, based on the usual factors.

If I'm on a flexible ticket, does this fee apply to me?
No.

If my original itinerary involves a red-eye and a flight the next day, can I standby for flights that are all on the same day?
Yes. It is based on the day of departure from origin.

Does one fee cover multiple segments?
Yes. However, you must be able to confirm all segments at the same time.

Does my status influence my ability to confirm a seat?
No. If you have $75 and a seat is available, it's yours. Inventory management controls the availability of seats, not Mileage Plus.

Is this fee per person, or per PNR?
It is per person. If you have two people traveling on the same PNR, and two seats are available, you pay $150.

Does this replace the missed flight policy?
No. The "flat tire rule" is still in place. See reply #30 by rcs85551 for the relevant UA profile.

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I hope the above is helpful. Please let me know of any inaccuracies or omissions.