đź’ş Where to Find Nonrev Success in May

A round-up of our top posts this week and deals you may have missed.

Author

Matt C
April 25, 2025

Happy Friday from Los Angeles! ✨ 

Out here, everyone’s chasing a dream—some want fame, some want a Netflix deal, and me? I’m just trying to snag an exit row seat without getting rolled to the next flight. LAX might not have the glitz of Rodeo Drive, but between the celebrity sightings, lounge cameos, and overheard pitch meetings at Gate 62, it’s got a vibe all its own.

While I’m in town, I’m hoping to sneak into one of the newer lounges here for a review, explore a few neighborhoods I’ve never properly wandered through, and chat with a couple airport hotels about securing staff travel rates—because let’s be honest, when you get stuck overnight, a discounted crash pad within walking distance of the terminal can feel like five-star luxury.

Whether you’re cruising into a weekend trip or plotting your next big standby swing, this week’s newsletter has fresh hotel discounts, smarter ways to fly, and a few deals that are red carpet-worthy in their own right.

Catch you at the gate,

Matt C
Captain, Standby Steals đź’š

Latest deals, tips & more

50% Off Sofitel, Pullman & More in China
Accor is offering big savings on premium hotels across Greater China and beyond—but only if you book fast.

Your Best Nonrev Bets for May
We crunched the DOT numbers—these U.S. routes had the lowest load factors last May. Here’s where to nonrev next.

Save 25% at Best Western in Europe
Airline staff can save up to 25% at Best Western hotels in 10+ European countries. A great deal for your next Eurotrip.

BA Employee Caught Selling Staff Travel
A British Airways employee was busted for selling their flight perks on eBay. The fallout? Major—and totally avoidable.

Layover Guide: 48 Hours in San Francisco
From sourdough to sea lions, here’s how to make the most of a long layover in SF—including transit tips and standby strategies.

UK Departure Taxes Just Went Up
Flying out of the UK just got pricier—especially for long-hauls. Here’s what airline staff need to know about the new APD hike.

More deals for airline staff

Sandals Resorts - airline staff receive special discounts across properties in Jamaica, Saint Lucia, and The Bahamas

The Standard, Maldives - airline staff save up to 50% off rates (plus 20% off F&B and spa services)

Ala Moana Hotel in Honolulu - airline staff save up to 15%

TWA Hotel at JFK - airline staff save up to 25%

Marriott Hotels Worldwide - airline staff save up to 20%

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