Delta Airlines Buddy Pass: How It Works and What You Need to Know

Traveling can be an expensive affair, but with Delta Airlines’ Buddy Pass, employees have the opportunity to share travel perks with friends and family at a significantly reduced cost. However, like most travel benefits, the Buddy Pass comes with certain rules and conditions that travelers need to understand before flying.

In this blog, we’ll explore what the Delta Buddy Pass is, how it works, and what travelers should consider when using it.

What is the Delta Airlines Buddy Pass?

The Delta Airlines Buddy Pass is a special travel benefit provided to Delta employees. This pass allows them to offer discounted or even free flight tickets to friends, family members, and sometimes even colleagues. The key difference between a regular ticket and a Buddy Pass is that the pass grants a “standby” status, meaning travelers can only fly if there are available seats on the plane after all paying passengers have boarded.

How Does the Delta Buddy Pass Work?

Using a Delta Buddy Pass can save you money, but it comes with a set of guidelines. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the process typically works:

Receive the Buddy Pass

Delta employees are given a limited number of Buddy Passes each year, which they can share with others. If you’re fortunate enough to be offered one, you’ll need the employee’s information to book a flight.

Standby Status

Buddy Pass travelers are listed as “standby” passengers. This means that they won’t get a confirmed seat until all regular passengers have boarded. If there’s an empty seat, you’ll be assigned to it. But if the flight is fully booked, you may need to wait for the next available flight.

Booking the Flight

Unlike regular ticket bookings, Buddy Pass holders often can’t book their flights far in advance. You may need to be flexible with your travel dates and times, as seat availability changes frequently.

Check-In Process

On the day of travel, Buddy Pass passengers should arrive early at the airport and check in like any other passenger. However, instead of a boarding pass, they’ll receive a standby pass, indicating that their seat is not guaranteed.

Boarding

After all ticketed passengers have boarded, gate agents will call standby passengers, including those with Buddy Passes. If your name is called, you can board; if not, you may need to wait for the next flight.

Pros and Cons of using a Delta Buddy Pass

While using a Buddy Pass can be a great way to save on travel, it comes with some uncertainties. Here are some of the key advantages and disadvantages:

Pros:

  • The most obvious benefit is that Buddy Passes offer a significantly reduced fare, and sometimes even free travel, depending on the employee’s arrangement.
  • Buddy Passes can give people the chance to travel more often or to destinations they might not have considered due to cost.

Cons:

  • The biggest downside is the uncertainty that comes with standby travel. If a flight is full, Buddy Pass travelers might have to wait hours or even days for an available seat.
  • Delta employees only receive a limited number of Buddy Passes, so they are not always readily available. Plus, they may come with restrictions on international flights or premium cabin access.
  • Since you’ll often be flying on short notice, it’s hard to plan trips in advance. Your travel dates and times are heavily dependent on seat availability.

Who is eligible for a Delta Buddy Pass?

The buddy pass is available only through Delta employees, and they can typically offer these passes to friends, family members, and sometimes even extended acquaintances. However, it’s important to note that the pass holder must adhere to certain etiquette, as the employee’s job may be impacted if rules are broken or abused.

Tips for Traveling with a Delta Buddy Pass

To ensure a smoother experience when traveling with a Delta Buddy Pass, here are some practical tips:

  • Be Flexible: Since your flight is not confirmed, flexibility is key. Always have a backup plan in case your initial flight is full or delayed.
  • Travel Light: If you’re flying standby, avoid checking bags when possible. This will make it easier for you to catch last-minute flights and reduce the hassle if you need to switch to another flight quickly.
  • Dress Appropriately: Delta requires Buddy Pass passengers to adhere to a dress code. While you don’t need to wear formal attire, wearing appropriate clothing like business casual can help you avoid being denied boarding.
  • Monitor Flight Status: Before heading to the airport, check the flight’s availability and status. This will give you an idea of how full the plane is and whether you have a good chance of getting a seat.
  • Stay Calm and Polite: Dealing with standby travel can be stressful, especially when flights are full. It’s important to remain patient, courteous, and understanding with airline staff as they work to get you on board.

Common Misconceptions About Delta Buddy Passes

Some travelers may misunderstand how the Buddy Pass works, leading to confusion or disappointment. Let’s debunk some of the common misconceptions:

  1. Guaranteed Seat: Many people believe that a Buddy Pass guarantees them a seat on the flight. However, this is not the case. You will only get a seat if there are empty ones after all paying passengers have boarded.
  2. Unlimited Use: While Delta employees are given several Buddy Passes each year, they are limited, and passes are not available in unlimited quantities.
  3. International Flights: Although Buddy Passes can sometimes be used for international travel, they are often more restricted for overseas trips, and finding available seats can be even more challenging on popular routes.
  4. Same Privileges as Delta Employees: Buddy Pass travelers do not receive the same benefits or priorities as Delta employees. Employees generally have higher boarding priority, so it’s important to manage your expectations when using a Buddy Pass.

Final Words

The Delta Buddy Pass is an excellent perk for those looking to save on travel costs. However, it’s essential to understand that flying standby comes with its challenges, and you must be flexible with your plans. By being prepared, checking flight statuses, and adhering to Delta’s travel guidelines, you can make the most of this unique benefit and enjoy discounted travel across Delta’s vast network.

My experience using a buddy pass for the first time
byu/puss_in_booots indelta

Happy travels from Travel Teasers!😇

Can I use a Delta Buddy Pass for international flights?

Yes, Buddy Passes can sometimes be used for international flights, but availability is more limited, and you’ll still be on standby status.

How often can I use a Delta Buddy Pass?

Delta employees are given a limited number of Buddy Passes each year, so the frequency depends on how many passes the employee has available.

Do I need to pay for a Delta Buddy Pass?

While Buddy Passes offer discounted travel, there are still some fees, such as taxes and airport charges, that the traveler must pay.

Can I earn frequent flyer miles with a Delta Buddy Pass?

No, Buddy Pass travel does not earn frequent flyer miles since it’s a non-revenue ticket.

What happens if I miss a flight with a Buddy Pass?

If you miss your flight due to standby limitations, you will need to wait for the next available flight with open seats.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *