What does the term "non-rev" refer to in aviation?

The term "non-rev" specifically refers to a non-revenue passenger traveling for free. This commonly applies to airline employees, their friends, or family members who are utilizing space available on a flight that has not been sold to paying passengers. Non-revenue travel can happen when there are empty seats on a flight, as these individuals are allowed to board, typically on a standby basis, without having purchased a ticket.

Understanding this concept is crucial for aviation staff because non-revenue passengers do not contribute to the airline’s profit from ticket sales. The policies for non-rev travel can vary by airline, including boarding priority and the rules that govern who gets to fly when space is limited.

Other terms or passenger classifications, such as a full fare passenger or a frequent flyer with elite status, do not fit this definition and pertain instead to those who have paid for their tickets or who have earned travel benefits through loyalty programs, respectively.