United Airlines has launched an industry-first mobile app feature designed to offer customers greater flexibility and options during travel disruptions. The new functionality allows passengers rebooked to a later flight to stand by for up to three earlier flights, with the app automatically monitoring for available seats and sending text notifications when a spot opens.
This innovative tool eliminates the need for constant manual checking, enabling customers to retain their original confirmed itinerary until they choose to switch to an earlier flight. The feature is being rolled out in anticipation of the busy Labor Day travel period, during which United expects to fly over 3.4 million customers between September 3-8.
Jennifer Schwierzke, Vice President of Customer Operations, Strategy & Execution at United, emphasized the airline's commitment. "This feature reflects our commitment to making travel more seamless and less stressful for our customers," Schwierzke said. "During disruptions, customers can keep their confirmed itinerary and stand by for three additional flights. We work behind the scenes to monitor availability and alert customers as soon as a seat becomes available."
The new standby option complements United's existing suite of self-service recovery tools, which include automatic rebooking, meal and hotel voucher distribution, and checked bag tracking. Recent enhancements to the app also feature Digital ID integration with Apple Wallet for TSA PreCheck, real-time inbound aircraft status, TSA wait time estimates, personalized connection support with turn-by-turn directions, and Apple's Share Item Location for AirTag-enabled bag tracking. These digital advancements aim to streamline the travel experience and keep customers informed.