Reversing an earlier policy change slated to go into effect Jan. 1, United Airlines today said it will not charge passengers $100 to stand by for an earlier or later flight on the ticketed day of travel.
"We have been listening to our customers, and we agree with them that their travel experience should be simpler and easier," said Chris Bowers, United senior vice president of marketing and sales. "This will give our customers the flexibility to stand by for an earlier or later flight on the same day without incurring an additional expense."
United, like other major network carriers, adopted the policy in the wake of US Airways' decision to restrict reuse of nonrefundable tickets
(BTN, Sep. 9).
At press time, American, Continental and Delta airlines had not announced a matching policy reversal. Unless they follow United, come Jan. 1 their customers will be charged $100 to fly standby.