Flying Standby

[IncredibleMom]

We're not frequent fliers and have never done this but would like to know the procedure. Here's the background info:

We are flying AA on the 23rd connecting at DFW.
We're not scheduled to depart DFW until 1:08pm, but we want to try to get on the 10:40am departure.
Q#1: What is the procedure for this? Do we go check at the gate or go to the check-in counter?
Q#2: What happens to our luggage if we can do this?

As of now that particular flight is booked, so I know the chances are slim, BUT I know the airlines change planes sometimes (the 10:40 flight is on an M80 and all other flights to MCO are 757s, so maybe...)
Q#3: How often and what are the chances if this happening?

Getting down to the wire, now!!!

Thanks,
IncredibleMom

 

[safetymom]

I would call the airline the day before and ask how full the earlier flight is. They may not tell you but usually they will.

http://www.aa.com/content/utility/sameDayTravel.jhtml

 

[IncredibleMom]

Thanks!

-IncredibleMom

 

[Hannathy]

Also how many are flying ? One finding a seat is a lot different than more, and don't think about sitting together if it is a full flight and don't expect others to move if you do make it on the flight, in my experience it will be at the last minute.

You can try going to the airlines site and try to buy seats if it is empty you will be able to, and see a seat selector just don't finalize the purchase.

 

[lost*in*cyberspace]

If you are checking bags, this will be a problem, as your bags must travel on the flight you are taking. You will have to start at the check-in counter in time to make the earlier flight and see if there is room.

I don't think the hassle and possible added cost would be worth it just to get a flight a bit over 2 hours earlier. And if you can't get the earlier flight, that's a lot of extra time hanging out at the airport.

 

[Lewisc]

That policy was repealed when the TSA started screening 100% of checked luggage. Standby for an earlier flight and the airline might put your luggage on that flight even if you don't clear. Not a problem with DME, your luggage will get delivered to your room even if your luggage isn't on the same flight as you.

If you are checking bags, this will be a problem, as your bags must travel on the flight you are taking.

 

[seashoreCM]

I would go down to the airport in plenty of time to catch the earlier flight I want to stand by for.

Some of the time the flight was empty enough that the airline just assigned me a seat and changed the booking for me on the spot.

I used to standby for earlier flights a lot until the airlines I used started charging a fee for standby.

Disney hints:
http://members.aol.com/ajaynejr/disney.htm

 

[PlaneJoy1]

Always list and stand by for each and every flight, regardless of availability when you are traveling on a pass. They agent will "roll" you to the next flight if you don't make it on the first one. You never know if you will make or not!

 

[IncredibleMom]

Thanks, All-

It's not a big deal, I know it would only put us there 2.5hrs early.
I just wanted to know the procedure just in case we can do it...never hurts to try!

I'll find out in the morning!
24 hours 'til take off as of this minute!

Thanks for answering all of my questions,
IncredibleMom