One of the most attractive perks of working in the airline industry is the ability to fly for free or at heavily discounted rates. This benefit is not just limited to pilots and flight attendants, but also extends to other employees of airlines. In this article, we will explore the details of this benefit and how it works for airline employees.
What is the "Fly for Free" Benefit?
The "fly for free" or "standby travel" benefit is a perk that allows airline employees to travel on their own airline or other airlines at no cost or at heavily discounted rates. This benefit is extended to the employees of the airline, their eligible dependents, and sometimes even their friends or other family members.
Who is Eligible for the Benefit?
Most airlines have specific eligibility criteria that employees must meet to qualify for the standby travel benefit. Some of the common requirements include being a full-time employee, completing a certain period of service with the airline, and passing a security background check. The eligibility criteria may vary from one airline to another, so it is important to check with the specific airline for details.
How Does Standby Travel Work?
The standby travel benefit allows employees to travel on a space-available basis, meaning they can only board a flight if there are empty seats available after all paying passengers have been accommodated. This means that employees must be flexible with their travel plans and be prepared to wait for several flights before they can secure a seat. Airlines usually have a priority list for standby travel, with the highest priority being given to employees and their eligible dependents.
/busy-56a618403df78cf7728b4e57.jpg)
What are the Benefits of Standby Travel?
There are several benefits of the standby travel benefit for airline employees. One of the most obvious benefits is the ability to travel for free or at heavily discounted rates. This is a great way for employees to explore new destinations or visit friends and family without having to worry about the cost of airfare. Additionally, the flexibility of standby travel allows employees to take advantage of last-minute travel opportunities or change their travel plans without incurring any fees.
What are the Drawbacks of Standby Travel?
While the standby travel benefit is a great perk for airline employees, there are some drawbacks to consider. The most significant drawback is the uncertainty of being able to secure a seat on a flight. This means that employees must be prepared for the possibility of being stranded at an airport or having to change their travel plans at the last minute. Additionally, the high demand for standby travel can sometimes make it difficult to secure a seat, especially during peak travel seasons or on popular routes.
Are There Any Restrictions on Standby Travel?
While the standby travel benefit is a great perk, there are some restrictions that employees must be aware of. For example, some airlines may have blackout dates or restrictions on certain routes or destinations. Additionally, employees may not be able to use the standby travel benefit during peak travel seasons or on popular routes. It is important to check with the specific airline for details on any restrictions that may apply.
Conclusion
The standby travel benefit is a great perk for airline employees, allowing them to travel for free or at heavily discounted rates. While there are some drawbacks to consider, such as the uncertainty of securing a seat and restrictions on certain routes, the benefits of this perk far outweigh the drawbacks. If you are considering a career in the airline industry, the standby travel benefit is definitely something to keep in mind.