Left Behind in SEA: 18 Open Seats, No Nonrevs Boarded

At Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), a flight departed for Portland, Oregon (PDX) with 18 empty seats—while two non-revs stood just feet from the gate agent and were left behind. According to a post shared in a nonrev Facebook group, there was no final boarding call, no acknowledgment of standby passengers, and no explanation—just a quiet door close and a jetbridge pull.

The agent’s reason? The nonrevs “didn’t raise their hand.”

It's Not Just One Flight

The story quickly gained traction, with airline employees chiming in to say they’ve experienced similar treatment—being overlooked or left behind even when there were open seats. Others pointed out that this issue is not limited to one airport or one carrier.

“I stood at the podium with my baby,” one commenter recalled, “and the GA [gate agent] just printed paperwork and shut the door.”

Another added, “This isn’t a favor. It’s part of our compensation.”

When Pilots Step In

One captain jumped into the thread and shared that he regularly checks the standby list and walks to the gate early to ensure all available seats are filled. His comment was met with widespread praise.

“YOU are the difference,” one commenter wrote.

Still, many agreed: while it’s admirable, nonrevs shouldn’t have to rely on a captain’s kindness to use the benefits they’ve earned.

What’s Behind the Breakdown?

Several contributors suggested that on-time departure pressure and staffing constraints are playing a role. Others pointed to inconsistent training, poor communication, and some agents simply not being familiar with how to clear nonrevs properly.

Some stations, including SEA, were repeatedly mentioned as difficult, while others praised agents at different airports who consistently advocate for standby travelers.

“There’s no standard,” one commenter said. “Every station does it differently.”

Tips from the Community

Here’s what seasoned non-revs recommended in response:

• Politely check in. Let the agent know you’re in the gate area early.

• Be visible. Stay nearby during boarding, without crowding the podium.

• Escalate if needed. If something feels off, ask for a supervisor or quietly notify the flight crew.

• Report it. Use internal reporting tools or message the company’s support channels.

Above all: support the gate agents and crews who do go out of their way to help. They’re out there—and they deserve recognition.

What This Means for Airline Staff

This situation has struck a nerve with many airline employees, who say that standby travel—once seen as a treasured benefit—is starting to feel more like a gamble.

With inconsistent processes, limited accountability, and fewer formal feedback channels, nonrevving has become a source of anxiety and frustration.

For those flying on benefits, the lesson is simple: Be your own best advocate, know your resources, and speak up early.

Final Boarding Question

If you were standing at the gate in this situation, watching 18 seats go unused, what would you have done? Would you have spoken up? Approached the captain? Stayed silent?