Baby, It’s Cold Outside

It’s a weird week to fly in the US

I was visiting friends in Chicago this week when the weather turned brutally cold, and I decided to come home early. (That’s the beauty of flexible standby travel, right?) I headed to ORD confident about my planned flight only to find out that the morning 777-200 departure had cancelled, leaving my flight full.

However, I then noticed that United had scheduled two additional 737 departures for the evening to make up for the earlier cancellation. The second departure of that night was empty, so I listed and scored a seat in First Class with three other people. That’s right - four total pax on a plane that holds 179. That’s a flight attendant-to-customer ratio of 1:1!

I got a personalized briefing from the captain, a whole lavatory to myself, and a very quiet, restful flight back to FLL. 😴 

But, I do count myself among the lucky ones. It’s a bit rough going out there. Houston (IAH and HOU) airports are closing tomorrow due to expected snow, dense fog in Europe canceled and delayed thousands of flights, and airports along the US East Coast are still shoveling out of a winter storm.

I’m thankful to be home in Florida, where I plan to stay put for a bit. I still have to apply for my UK ETA per the new entry rules and finalize my trip to India in a few weeks. I’m definitely looking forward to staying home and avoiding the winter chaos. 😎 

If you are traveling this week, best of luck to you! With cancellations and reroutes and extra sections galore, sometimes a bad scenario turns into a good one for nonrevs. Stay flexible, and always check and re-check your flight options because you never know, you could end up on a nonrev miracle flight like me!

And if you aren’t so lucky, be sure to check our site for exclusive savings for airline staff in case you need to (unexpectedly) spend the night. 🙃 We’re adding new savings every week!

Stay warm,

Matt C
Captain, Standby Steals 💚 

🚨 The Standard, Maldives - up to 50% Off!

With all this talk of winter weather chaos, there’s never been a better time to plan a trip to the Maldives! 😜 

As an airline employee, your ID entitles you to up to 50% off standard rates at The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives! And on top of that, you’ll also receive 20% off food and beverage purchases and spa services. Given the notoriously high prices of F&B in the Maldives, that savings really adds up.

This high-end, award-winning property is a short seaplane ride from MLE airport and the perfect escape for couples, friends, and families. Each of the 115 beachfront or overwater villas features a private lounge deck and plunge pool, perfect for soaking in the island vibes. Sign me up!

Right now, the travel industry rate also includes breakfast and dinner and is refundable as well! 😲 

I was lucky enough to visit the Maldives in 2023, and I had the time of my life! There’s truly nothing else like it in the world. Sharpen up your ZED skills, figure out your flights to get there, and lock in this rate while you can.

Click for full rate terms and conditions and step-by-step instructions on how to book this special discount.

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