Can You Change the Name on a Plane Ticket? A Complete Guide for Business Travelers
Business travel involves precise planning, from booking flights to managing itineraries. A critical part of this process is ensuring all travel details, especially on airline tickets, are accurate. Even a small error—like a misspelled name—can cause delays or even denial at boarding. So, can you change the name on a plane ticket? The short answer is: Yes, in most cases—but with limitations.
This guide explores the name change policies across major airlines and what steps to take if you’ve made a mistake during booking.
Are Name Changes Allowed on Plane Tickets?
Airlines do allow minor name corrections for common issues such as typos, misspellings, or post-marriage name changes. However, changing the name to transfer a ticket to another person is generally not permitted due to security protocols. This is because passenger information is shared with the TSA and must match government-issued IDs.
For instance, if you’ve recently gotten married and your legal documents haven’t been updated yet, airlines may allow name corrections with proof, like a marriage certificate. However, trying to give your ticket to a friend or colleague? That won’t work.
Airline Policies on Name Corrections
✅ Air Canada
- Name Change: Not allowed on existing tickets.
- Correction Process: You must cancel and rebook.
- Fees: Up to $400 for international and $300 for domestic routes.
✅ Alaska Airlines
- Allowed Corrections:
- Typos (up to 3 letters)
- Nickname to legal name
- Marital name changes
- Fees: $125 for name transfers (exceptions for Gold members).
✅ American Airlines
- Permitted Name Corrections:
- Misspellings
- Legal name changes (marriage/divorce)
- Inverted names or incorrect order
- Note: Name transfers are not allowed.
✅ Delta Airlines
- Corrections Allowed:
- Up to 3 letters in last name
- Nickname to legal name
- Restrictions: No name transfers to another individual.
✅ JetBlue Airlines
- Permitted Changes:
- Misspellings
- Marital/divorce-related changes
- Adding middle or last names
- Limit: Only one correction per passenger is allowed. Significant changes may require cancellation and rebooking.
Why Airlines Don’t Allow Ticket Transfers
Name transfers are typically not allowed to prevent misuse and maintain security. Airline systems are integrated with TSA verification, and discrepancies between ticket and ID details can lead to denied boarding.
Best Practices to Avoid Name Errors
- Double-check spelling before confirming your flight.
- Match names exactly with your government-issued ID or passport.
- Update frequent flyer accounts to avoid inherited typos in future bookings.
- Contact the airline immediately if you spot an error after booking.
Conclusion
Mistakes in flight bookings happen—but the key is knowing how to fix them. While most airlines are accommodating with minor corrections, name transfers are rarely allowed. Always check airline policies before making changes. A small typo can become a big hassle if not resolved in time.
Business travelers especially should be extra vigilant with flight details to ensure smooth, stress-free travel. And if you’re booking flights frequently for work, consider using a corporate travel platform like Paxes that simplifies bookings, ensures data accuracy, and supports hassle-free travel management.
FAQs
Can I change the name on a plane ticket?
Yes, minor corrections like typos or name changes due to marriage/divorce are allowed. But you can’t transfer the ticket to another person.
What’s the typical fee for a name correction?
It depends on the airline. Some allow free corrections, while others may charge $125 or more for significant changes.
How do I request a name change?
Contact the airline or booking agency immediately. Provide valid documents like your ID or marriage certificate if necessary.
Are name changes allowed within 24 hours of booking?
Yes, most airlines offer free changes within 24 hours of booking. After that, fees and restrictions may apply.
Can I use someone else’s ticket if I change the name?
No. Tickets are non-transferable. The original passenger listed must be the one who travels.
