Can I Transfer a Delta Ticket to Another Person?

Booking a flight is an exciting process, but what happens if your travel plans change and you can no longer take the trip? One common question travelers ask is: Can I transfer my Delta Airlines ticket to someone else? Unfortunately, airline policies are quite strict when it comes to name changes and ticket transfers.

In this article, we’ll break down Delta Airlines’ ticket transfer policy, alternatives you can explore if you can’t use your ticket, and tips to avoid losing money on non-transferable flights.

Can You Transfer a Delta Ticket to Another Person?

The short answer is no—Delta Airlines does not allow passengers to transfer their tickets to another person. Once a ticket is issued in your name, it is non-transferable due to security reasons, fare restrictions, and airline policies. This means that even if you can’t use the ticket, you can’t give it to a friend or sell it to someone else.

The name on the ticket must match the name on the traveler’s government-issued ID or passport at the time of check-in. If someone else attempts to use your ticket, they will likely be denied boarding.

Why Doesn’t Delta Allow Ticket Transfers?

Delta, like most major airlines, enforces a non-transferable ticket policy for several reasons:

• Security Regulations – Airlines follow strict identity verification rules for safety and to comply with government regulations.
• Revenue Protection – Preventing ticket resales ensures Delta can maintain control over pricing and availability.
• Fraud Prevention – Non-transferable tickets reduce the risk of fraudulent reselling and unauthorized ticket exchanges.

Although you can’t transfer your ticket to another person, there are still ways to make changes if you can’t travel.

What Are Your Options If You Can’t Use Your Delta Ticket?

Since transferring your ticket isn’t an option, here are some alternatives that might help:

1. Change Your Flight (Rebooking for Yourself)

If your travel plans have changed but you still want to fly, you may be able to change the date, time, or destination of your ticket. Delta allows flight changes under the following conditions:

• No Change Fees for Main Cabin and Above: Delta eliminated change fees for most domestic and international flights (excluding Basic Economy tickets).
• Fare Difference Applies: If your new flight costs more than the original, you’ll need to pay the difference.
• Same Passenger Requirement: The new ticket must still be under your name.

2. Cancel Your Ticket for an eCredit

Delta offers eCredits for many canceled flights, which you can use toward future travel. Here’s how it works:

• Most Main Cabin & Above Tickets – If you cancel your flight, Delta will issue you an eCredit, which you can use within a specified time frame.
• Basic Economy Tickets – These are usually non-refundable and non-changeable. However, some exceptions apply if you cancel within Delta’s 24-hour risk-free cancellation period.

3. Use Delta’s 24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation

If you booked your ticket within the last 24 hours, you can cancel it for a full refund, no questions asked. This applies to tickets booked directly through Delta.

4. Explore Travel Insurance Coverage

If you purchased travel insurance, check if it covers cancellations for unexpected reasons like medical emergencies. Some plans may reimburse you if you can’t travel.

5. Contact Delta Customer Support

In exceptional cases (such as medical emergencies, military deployment, or bereavement), Delta’s customer service might offer flexibility. If you have a valid reason for needing a ticket change, it’s worth reaching out to their support team.

What About Name Changes on a Delta Ticket?

While full ticket transfers are not allowed, Delta does allow minor name corrections for spelling mistakes or legal name changes. This applies to:

• Spelling Errors (e.g., "Jonh" instead of "John")
• Legal Name Changes (due to marriage, divorce, or court order)
• Reversing First and Last Names (e.g., "Smith John" instead of "John Smith")

These corrections must be done through Delta customer support and may require official documentation.

Tips to Avoid Losing Money on Non-Transferable Delta Tickets

Since Delta tickets can’t be transferred, here are some tips to protect yourself before booking: Book Refundable or Flexible Tickets – If you think plans might change, opt for Main Cabin or higher fares instead of Basic Economy.

• Use Travel Insurance – This can help recover costs if you need to cancel.
• Check Your Schedule Before Booking – Double-check dates and plans before confirming a ticket purchase.
• Book Through Delta Directly – Some third-party booking sites have stricter cancellation policies than Delta’s own terms.

Final Thoughts

Delta Airlines does not allow ticket transfers, meaning you cannot give your ticket to another person. However, you do have options such as rebooking, canceling for an eCredit, or requesting a refund within 24 hours of booking.

To avoid problems, always double-check your travel plans before purchasing a ticket. If you’re unsure about your schedule, consider booking a flexible fare or purchasing travel insurance to protect your money in case plans change.