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American and Continental Airlines both toughened rules on nonrefundable tickets to eliminate the one-year grace period for missed flights after October 1, and will charge a $100 fee for standby-flight changes.

Customers flying American, Continental and US Airways are still able to make changes to itineraries for nonrefundable tickets before departure, subject to $100 change fees and several restrictions, but customers will have to rebook for specific future dates. All three airlines said they would make exceptions for travelers who miss their flights, but show up late during the same day for travel. In its rule-tightening last week, US Airways also eliminated standby changes as an option with nonrefundable tickets.

American followed suit Friday, but will give customers holding non-refundable tickets the option of paying $100 to change flights by waiting on a standby list. Continental matched American's standby rules over the Labor Day weekend.

It is rumored that if other airlines do not match the changes, American, Continental and US Airways might consider dropping, or relaxing the tighter restrictions to remain competitive. Meanwhile, Continental, American, United and Northwest Airlines have all instituted a $20-$25 fee for issuance of paper tickets for those who choose not fly on e-tickets.