Can You Edit the Name of a Passenger on a Flight?

Booking a flight is an exciting process, but what happens if you realize you’ve made a mistake while entering your name? Whether it's a simple typo or a major error, correcting a name on a flight ticket can be a tricky process. Airlines have strict policies regarding name changes due to security and ticketing regulations, but many do allow corrections under specific conditions.

In this article, we’ll explore whether you can edit the name of a passenger on a flight, the policies of different airlines, the costs involved, and the steps you should take to correct a name on your ticket.

Why Do Airlines Have Strict Name Change Policies?

Airline tickets are issued in the passenger’s name and are non-transferable in most cases. This policy helps prevent fraud, reselling of tickets, and unauthorized ticket transfers. Airlines and airport security systems, such as TSA and immigration authorities, require that the name on the ticket exactly match the name on the passenger’s passport or government-issued ID.

If there is a discrepancy, you may be denied boarding. That’s why it’s crucial to ensure your name is correct when booking your flight.

Types of Name Corrections Airlines Allow

While most airlines have strict policies regarding full name changes, they do allow minor corrections under certain circumstances. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Minor Name Corrections (Typos & Spelling Errors)

If you made a minor mistake such as a spelling error (e.g., "Jonh" instead of "John"), most airlines will allow you to correct it without much trouble. This type of correction is often free or involves a small administrative fee.

Examples of minor corrections allowed:

• Spelling errors (e.g., "Micheal" → "Michael")
• Missing or extra letters (e.g., "Sara" → "Sarah")
• Reversing first and last names (e.g., "Smith John" → "John Smith")
• Adding or removing middle names (depending on airline policy)

Most airlines allow these corrections online, through customer service, or at the airport ticket counter.

2. Full Name Changes

If you need to change your entire name (for example, transferring your ticket to another person), most airlines do not allow this. However, some airlines might permit a full name change in special cases, such as:

Legal Name Change (due to marriage, divorce, or court order)

Booking Error (if the ticket was purchased under the wrong name by mistake)

You may need to provide official documents (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, or legal name change document) to process this request.

3. Airline-Specific Policies

Each airline has its own name correction policies. Some allow limited changes for free, while others charge a fee. Below are the general policies of some major airlines:

American Airlines – Minor corrections (up to 3 letters) are free; major corrections may require a reissued ticket with a fee.

Delta Airlines – Name corrections are allowed for minor spelling errors; a significant change requires rebooking.

United Airlines – Minor typos can be corrected online or via customer service; full name changes are not permitted.

British Airways – Spelling mistakes can be corrected; full name changes are only allowed in exceptional cases.

Ryanair & Low-Cost Airlines – Typically charge a high fee for any name change, often making it cheaper to buy a new ticket.

It’s always best to check with your airline to understand their specific policies.

How to Edit a Name on a Flight Ticket?

If you need to correct the name on your ticket, follow these steps:

Step 1: Check the Airlines Policy

Visit the airline’s website or contact customer service to see what type of name correction is allowed and whether a fee applies.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

If the name change is due to a legal reason (e.g., marriage), be prepared to provide supporting documents.

Step 3: Request the Correction

If the airline allows online corrections, log into your booking and edit the name.

If online editing is not available, call customer support or visit the airline’s ticket counter at the airport.

Step 4: Pay Any Fees

Depending on the airline and the type of correction, you may be required to pay a fee. This can range from free to $200+ depending on the airline and fare rules.

Step 5: Verify the Updated Ticket

Once the correction is processed, carefully review your new ticket to ensure the name matches your ID exactly.

What If You Can’t Change the Name?

If your airline does not allow name changes and your mistake is significant, your options may be limited:

• Cancel & Rebook: If your ticket allows cancellations with a refund (or credit), you can cancel it and book a new ticket with the correct name.
• Use Travel Insurance: If you purchased travel insurance, check whether it covers name correction issues.
• Try Speaking to a Supervisor: Some customer service representatives have more flexibility in resolving issues. If you're denied a correction, politely ask if a supervisor can assist.

Tips to Avoid Name Errors on Flight Tickets

To prevent the hassle of name corrections, follow these tips when booking flights:

• Use Your Full Legal Name – Enter your name exactly as it appears on your passport or ID.
• Double-Check Before Payment – Review all booking details before finalizing your ticket.
• Be Careful with Auto-Fill – If using auto-fill on your browser, make sure it doesn’t enter incorrect information.
• Book Through Reliable Channels – If booking through a third-party website or travel agency, confirm all details before purchase.

Final Thoughts

Editing a name on a flight ticket is possible, but the process varies by airline and ticket type. Minor spelling mistakes can usually be corrected for free or a small fee, but full name changes are rarely allowed.

To avoid issues, always double-check your name before booking your flight. If you realize an error after booking, act quickly by checking the airline’s policy and requesting a correction as soon as possible.