That three-letter code means your seat isn’t guaranteed yet. Here’s what to know before boarding.
If your boarding pass shows SBY instead of a seat number, you’re traveling standby. In simple terms, the airline hasn’t assigned you a seat yet.
Standby commonly happens when you’re trying to take an earlier flight than the one you originally booked. If a seat opens up because of a cancellation, no-show, or other availability, the airline may assign it to you.
What you should know
- SBY means standby.
- You do not have a guaranteed seat on that flight.
- Your seat could be assigned shortly before boarding.
- If no seat becomes available, you may have to take your original flight.
Many major U.S. airlines offer same-day standby, although eligibility and rules vary by carrier.
Standby vs. confirmed change
There’s an important difference between standby and a same-day confirmed flight change.
A confirmed change gives you a seat on the new flight. Standby means you’re waiting to see if one becomes available.
Bottom line: If you see SBY on your boarding pass, don’t assume you’re on the flight yet. Keep an eye on the airline’s app and stay near the gate in case your seat is assigned at the last minute.