Can You Change The Name On A Plane Ticket? – Know Airlines’ Rules And Guidelines

Wondering can you change the name on a plane ticket and how? Or, have you purchased tickets but your name has changed since then? Worry not, as we have all the information you need to understand and make changes to your airline tickets.

Traveling can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be one of the most stressful experiences if not properly planned. One of the travelers’ biggest issues is what to do if their name changes on an airline ticket. Whether you are an experienced traveler or just getting started, knowing the rules regarding airline name change policies can save you headache and even money. So, let’s know everything about whether can you change the name on plane tickets, how to change the name on airline tickets, and different airline name change policies, so you can make sure your trip runs smoothly.

Can I Change A Name On A Plane Ticket?

Travelers often try to book flight tickets months in advance to get the cheapest rates possible. A lot can happen or change over a couple of months which could affect your travel plans. Everyone might be wondering if you can change the name on flight tickets after purchasing. 

The exact answer to this question is – Yes, you can change your name on a plane ticket. But, there are only a few situations in which you will be allowed to. 

Whether you’ve just had a name change due to marriage, divorce, or another reason, there may be times when you need to switch the names on a ticket. The rules for changing names on tickets depend on the airline, so it’s important to be aware of their policies before you buy your tickets. 

Situations When Changing Name On Airline Tickets Are Allowed

There are some situations when the airline will permit you to change name on plane tickets. Mistakes can happen during the booking process and as long as the passenger remains the same, changes can be made to the name. Here’s to know when changes are allowed to be made – 

If You Made Spelling Errors

If you have made a spelling error while booking a flight ticket, then the airline has no problem with changing the name on a ticket. The passenger’s ticket must match the name on his/her government ID. Please note that middle names are not a problem, but airlines do focus on the first and last names of the passengers. Almost all airlines allow you to reach out as soon as you notice a mistake to get it fixed. And, if you somehow don’t notice the mistake until you arrive at the airport, you are not out of luck. You can fix up the problem at the ticket counter at the airport. 

If You’ve Legally Changed Your Name

If you have changed your name legally after booking your flight ticket, then don’t worry, you can change your name on it. It is very common amongst flyers that they book tickets prior to getting married or divorced. As long as it is a legal name change and you have valid documents to support the same, changes will be approved by the airlines. If you booked the ticket under the new name, but your ID still has your previous name on it. Please make sure you carry the necessary documents for the name change to the airport with you for review. And, it is advisable to arrive early at the airport because the airline may take more time to review your documents. You can check our blog on ‘how early to arrive at the airport?’ here for more information. 

Tip – If you are planning to book a flight ticket for your honeymoon right after your marriage, it is a good idea to use your maiden name as it takes months before your passport or visa can be updated to reflect your wedded name. 

If You Want To Change Prefix

If you have mistakenly filled wrong prefix, the airline will allow you to change the same. It is very easy to change the prefix and it doesn’t have any penalty fee. If you have reserved the plane tickets from the airline, you can contact the airline representatives directly to have the issue resolved. And, if you have booked the ticket from a travel agent, contact your agent to fix the prefix. If you have noticed the prefix error at the last minute, then stop worrying. Go to the ticket desk at the airport to have the problem resolved. 

If There Is Any Emergency With Proof Of Event

The airline may allow you to change the name if there is any emergency situation and you have proof of events. Some airlines have a strict non-transferable policy, while others will make exceptions under a few circumstances. For instance, if you have booked international flight tickets such as Chicago to Delhi flights and you suddenly have a medical emergency, you may not be able to fly and want to transfer your ticket to another person. The airline may allow you to transfer the ticket to another person with a doctor’s note to prove your medical condition. Always check the rules of the airline you are flying with in advance. 

Can I Change My Flight Ticket To Another Name?

Airlines will not allow you to transfer your flight ticket to another passenger. We understand that there might be a situation where you are not able to use your plane ticket and you may want to hand it off to a friend or family member that can use it. So, always check the refund policy of the airline you are planning to fly with. Most of airlines will allow you a full refund if you have purchased a refundable ticket and requested the same at least 24 hours or more before the flight. Please know that you will be eligible for a refund only if you have booked a refundable ticket at least 7 days before the flight. 

Once you get your refund, you can book a flight ticket for the other person. But, if you have booked a non-refundable ticket, you will not be able to do this. The only time that passengers with non-refundable tickets are allowed to receive a refund is when the airline makes changes to the flight. 

Airlines’ Name Change Policies 

Let’s take a look at the name change policies of various popular airlines – 

• American Airlines 

American Airlines does not allow you to transfer your tickets to someone else. If you wish to do so, then you need to cancel your flight ticket, which will have around a $150 penalty. After canceling your flight ticket, you will receive travel credit which can be used to purchase a ticket for the other person. 

• Delta Airlines

Delta Airlines does not allow passengers to transfer their flight tickets to another person. The airline allows you a name change on plane tickets only if there is a minor correction that needs to be made such as spelling errors. 

• Southwest Airlines 

Southwest Airlines will allow passengers who have booked Business Select, Wanna Get Away Plus, or Anytime flight tickets to transfer their tickets. The airline doesn’t give a refund for the flight, they provide travel credits to the customers. These credits can then be transferred to another Southwest flight passenger. Please note that you and the person you are transferring your travel credits to must have a Rapid Rewards account with Southwest Airlines. 

• JetBlue Airways

You can request a name change on a ticket with JetBlue Airways. But, please know that the airline has strict rules regarding name changes. Passengers are only permitted to make one name change per flight ticket. The airline will not reissue more than one ticket per passenger. 

• Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines allows their passengers to make changes to the name on their ticket, but it will cost some additional charges. You will be eligible for a free name change within 24 hours of booking your flight ticket. After 24 hours, you can expect an additional fee of $125. 

Amazing Tips To Avoid Name Changes On Flight Tickets

• Try to book the flight ticket yourself. When you are entering your own details, you can guarantee they will be correct. 

• Make sure you enter your name as it appears on your government ID. Airline policies state that the passenger’s ID must match what is on their ticket. 

• Typos can happen very easily, even when you are confident in what you are typing. So, always double-check your information.

• There could be some error or a slight mistake that you did not notice when submitting your details. So, always review your flight confirmation mail. You will have 24 hours in which you can make changes to your ticket free of cost. 

Conclusion

Overall, it’s important to be aware of airline name change policies so you can plan accordingly. Be sure to read all terms and conditions of your ticket before making a purchase, and if you do need to make a change of name, make sure you have all the necessary documents ready. With the right preparation, you can ensure that your trip runs smoothly and without any issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much will it cost to change the name on my plane ticket?

A: Each airline has different policies with charges and penalties for name changes on a ticket. While some airlines charge an additional fee, others may allow a change free of cost. 

Q: Why some airlines don’t allow you to change the name on a plane ticket?

A: Airlines say that name changes are not allowed because of security reasons. The only exception for name changes on a ticket is if the ticketholder will be the one using it and there is an error. Airlines also say that allowing name changes give scalpers a chance to take advantage of travelers. 

Q: What to do if my name recently changed?

A: If you recently changed your name, but your government ID Doesn’t reflect it, then don’t worry! You will still be able to fly, you just need to bring valid documentation of the change. 

We hope this blog has given you helpful information on how to change the name on a plane ticket. With the right knowledge and understanding of the policies of the different airlines, you can make the changes you need to and start your journey with ease. If you have any further doubts, do let us know. Our team of travel experts, at buyTicketsToIndia, will clear all your doubts at the earliest possible. 

 

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