Passenger Name Correction Rules for Flight Tickets
The name on a ticket must match the traveler’s ID. Fixing a typo is usually possible; swapping in another person usually is not. If you want help with your own booking, call 1-855-365-0395.
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At a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Usually allowed | Spelling errors, missing middle name |
| Usually not allowed | Replacing one traveler with another |
| Best window | The first day after booking |
| Next step | Compare ticket and ID letter by letter |
| Help line | 1-855-365-0395 |
Correction versus transfer
Airlines treat fixing a typo differently from changing who travels. Ask which category your case falls into.
Why it matters
Check-in and security compare your ID to the ticket. A mismatch can cause delay. See passenger details.
Step by step
- Compare the ticket with ID exactly.
- Contact the seller or airline right away.
- Ask what is allowed and whether a charge applies.
- Verify the corrected ticket.
How major airlines handle name corrections
Fare names and rules differ by airline and change often. Use these notes as a starting point and confirm your own fare.
Delta Air Lines
Its Basic Economy fare (also shown as Main Basic) is usually the most restricted option. For name corrections, check the rules attached to your own fare on Delta Air Lines’s website or app.
American Airlines
Basic Economy is generally the least flexible fare, while higher fares allow more. For name corrections, what you can do still depends on your fare, so confirm it before you decide.
United Airlines
Its Basic Economy fare is usually the most restricted option. For name corrections, check the rules attached to your own fare on United Airlines’s website or app.
Southwest Airlines
The four fare types differ on credits and same-day changes, and Basic credits have a shorter validity. For name corrections, what you can do still depends on your fare, so confirm it before you decide.
Alaska Airlines
Its Saver fare is usually the most restricted option. For name corrections, check the rules attached to your own fare on Alaska Airlines’s website or app.
JetBlue Airways
Blue Basic is the most restricted, while Blue fares allow more. For name corrections, what you can do still depends on your fare, so confirm it before you decide.
Air Canada
Its entry-level economy fare is usually the most restricted option. For name corrections, check the rules attached to your own fare on Air Canada’s website or app.
Lufthansa
Flights from or within the EU may also fall under EU passenger rights rules. For name corrections, what you can do still depends on your fare, so confirm it before you decide.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting until the airport.
- Booking with nicknames.
- Assuming tickets can be transferred.
Questions people ask
Can I fix a typo without charge?
Sometimes, especially soon after booking.
Can I add a middle name?
Often; ask the airline.
Can someone else use my ticket?
Generally no.
Ready to sort this out?
Call the travel assistance line and have your confirmation code and travel dates ready.
Call 1-855-365-0395Independent travel assistance line. Not an airline phone number.
Independent information service. VerdictSpot Travel Help is not an airline and is not affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by any airline. Airline names are trademarks of their owners and are used only to describe the topics covered. Airline rules change often; confirm current terms for your own ticket. You can also manage many bookings yourself on the airline’s own website or app. If you call, ask the agent to explain any service fee before you agree to anything.