American Airlines is reversing a policy that required travelers to be members of the carrier’s AAdvantage loyalty program to qualify for standby.
American Updates Standby Policy
Beginning July 1, 2025, American Airlines has re-introduced same day airport standby for all passengers. This marks a reversal of a policy that was introduced in March 2024 which limited standby to AAdvantage members.
Non-members couldn’t standby for other flights under the previous policy. In addition, standby requests were limited to the American Airlines website and mobile app so gate agents couldn’t place travelers on standby, unless they had elite status of course.
Now, all customers can list themselves on standby for a domestic flight with an American Airlines agent up to 45 minutes prior to departure.
American is Working to Become More Premium
This policy update from American is the latest customer friendly change introduced by the carrier since it decided to pivot towards a more premium business model earlier this year. The airline appointed Heather Garboden as its Chief Customer Officer and has been making positive changes.
The carrier still has a long way to go to catch up with Delta and United. The two airlines have left the Fort Worth based carrier in the dust in terms of overall passenger experience. Both Delta and United doubled down on seatback IFE while American was actively ripping screens out of narrowbody aircraft.
While it has made positive changes recently, including unveiling a new Flagship Business Class product and restarting the second beverage service on most flights (something else that has been reversed as part of the new premium push) the airline has also trialed removing bread and butter from Economy and Premium Economy meals, so we still have a long way to go.
Summary
American Airlines has reversed a policy that blocke3d certain passengers from same day standby at the airport. As of July 1, 2025, passengers can once again join the standby queue at the gate until 45 minutes prior to departure. While this is a minor change, it will have a big impact on non AAdvantage members when traveling.