Same-Day Standby Overview
Southwest Airlines® offers same-day standby for eligible Customers who want to switch to an earlier flight on the same day of travel.
Eligibility Requirements
You can request same-day standby if:
- You did not purchase a Basic fare or you are an A-List or A-List Preferred Member who purchased Basic.
- Your origin airport, destination, and travel date remain the same.
- You request to be added to the standby list:
- At least 10 minutes before your original flight’s scheduled departure (in person).
- At least 30 minutes before your original flight’s scheduled departure (via the Southwest® app or mobile web).
- Your fare type is one of the following or you booked a Getaways by Southwest™ vacation package:
- Choice
- Choice Preferred
- Choice Extra
Reservations that meet the above eligibility requirements with more than one Passenger are also eligible for same-day standby. Keep in mind, if there aren’t enough seats available, all Passengers in the reservation may not be cleared on the flight.
Learn more about same-day standby when traveling with a Companion.
Exceptions
Same-day standby is not available for:
- Group bookings
- Unaccompanied Minors
- Partner itineraries
Notes
- Some Southwest® Business Customers may need to see an Agent at the airport for standby listing.
- If you’ve checked a bag and switch flights, you may be separated from your checked bag. Southwest is not responsible for delivery charges if your bag arrives on the original flight it was checked on.
- Getaways by Southwest™ Customers can list for same-day standby via a Southwest® Agent at the airport or the Southwest app and must contact Getaways by Southwest™ after switching flights so that we can update the non-air components of the vacation booking to reflect the change.
How to Request Same-day Standby
You can request to be added to the same-day standby list:
- In person at the Southwest® ticket counter or departure gate
- Via the Southwest® app or mobile web
If a seat becomes available:
- You’ll receive a text or email with a link to check in and get your new boarding pass.
- You can also get your boarding pass from a Southwest Agent.
Important Reminders
- You won’t lose your original seat unless you’re officially moved to the new flight.
- Government taxes and fees may apply, but refunds will be provided.
- You’ll be automatically assigned a seat if moved to a new flight.
