Can I put myself on the waiting list for the flight?
LIS-ta — stress on first syllable. at-TE-sa — stress on second syllable.
When a flight is full and you want to be placed on standby in case a seat becomes available.
'Mettermi in lista d'attesa' (to put myself on the waiting list) uses the reflexive verb 'mettersi' (to place oneself) with 'lista d'attesa' (waiting list). This is used for flights, medical appointments, and any reservation system. 'Standby' is also used directly in Italian aviation contexts.
Sono in lista d'attesa. Quando saprò se c'è posto?
I am on the waiting list. When will I know if there is a seat?
Ask at the gate — final decisions are made close to departure
Posso fare lo standby per il volo precedente?
Can I do standby for the earlier flight?
Useful when you want an earlier connection
Quante persone sono davanti a me in lista?
How many people are ahead of me on the list?
Helps assess your chances of getting on
Standby travel in Italy works similarly to other countries. Frequent flyers with elite status on the airline's loyalty programme are generally given priority on standby lists. Same-day flight changes are increasingly possible via airline apps without going to the desk.