Field standby limits for United pilots
Short answer
Four hours at the airport unless you agree to more, and any flight you get must be scheduled to depart within five hours of your duty start.
What the contract says
“Without his concurrence, a Pilot shall not be held on standby duty at the airport in excess of four (4) hours and any assigned Flight must be scheduled to depart no later than five (5) hours from the start of his Duty Period.”
When does my duty period start?
At your scheduled report time or when you actually report, whichever is later. § 20-K-9-a
Is voluntary field standby paid extra?
Yes. When a voluntary field standby is placed on a reserve’s schedule, the reserve gets three hours of Add Pay. § 20-K-10-b
What if I’m released without a flight?
You are entitled to a minimum off-duty period. § 20-K-9-c
This page explains contract language; it is not legal advice. If your situation is not covered, ask your union representative.