Booking a flight is usually straightforward — until you realize there’s a typo in your name or a traveler can’t make it and someone else needs the ticket. Suddenly, you’re facing a frustrating and often expensive situation: changing the name on an airline ticket. While airlines can be strict, there are workarounds, policies, and practical steps you can take. Here’s what you need to know.

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Why Name Changes Are Complicated

Most airlines don’t allow name changes for a simple reason: tickets are non-transferable, meaning they’re intended only for the person named on the booking. This is meant to prevent ticket scalping or resale. However, small corrections are often allowed — and some airlines are more flexible than others.

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1. Check the Airline’s Name Change Policy Immediately

Every airline has its own rules:

• Some allow minor corrections (e.g. fixing one or two letters).
• Others allow full name changes for a fee.
• Budget airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) often allow changes but at a cost—sometimes as much as a new ticket.
• Full-service carriers (like Lufthansa, Delta, or Emirates) may be more strict.

🔍 Tip: Search “[Airline Name] name change policy” or call their customer service ASAP.

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2. Act Quickly

Timing is everything. If you spot the mistake within 24 hours of booking, many airlines will let you cancel or edit your ticket for free. After that, you may be subject to hefty fees or complete restrictions.

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3. Typo vs. Name Change: Know the Difference

• Typo correction (e.g. “Jonh” instead of “John”): Usually allowed with proof.
• Maiden name to married name: Some airlines will change it if you provide legal documents.
• Full name change to another person: Often not allowed unless you booked with a low-cost carrier that explicitly allows it for a fee.

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4. Bring Documentation

If your name has changed legally (due to marriage, divorce, etc.), bring:

• A passport or national ID

• The legal document proving the change (marriage certificate, court order, etc.)

Some airlines will correct the name manually if you email them the documents.

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5. Use Travel Agencies or Booking Platforms Wisely

Some booking platforms like Expedia or Kiwi may have additional flexibility or better support for handling name changes—but it depends. If you booked through a third party, contact them first before the airline.

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6. Expect to Pay a Fee

Most airlines do not allow transferring tickets to another person (i.e., changing the name completely), especially low-cost carriers.
However, some airline do — typically for a fee.

Even for small changes, you may be charged:

• Typo correction: Often free or ~$30
• Full name change (low-cost airlines): $100–$200+
• New booking: Sometimes it’s cheaper to just rebook than pay the name change fee

Here are some example fees:

Airline Name Change Fees & Policies

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Ryanair

£115 online / £160 via call center

Name changes allowed; fees apply per passenger per flight.

easyJet

£55 per flight online / £60 via call center.

Name changes allowed; fees apply per passenger per flight.

Wizz Air

€50 per leg + €15 call center fee.

Name changes allowed; fees apply per passenger per flight.

Vueling

€50 per leg after 24 hours.

Name changes allowed; fees apply per passenger per flight.

Virgin Atlantic

Not allowed; rebooking required.

Tickets are non-transferable; rebooking under new name at current ticket price.

British Airways

Not allowed; rebooking required.

Tickets are non-transferable; rebooking under new name at current ticket price.

airBaltic

€100–€200 depending on fare class.

Name changes allowed; fees apply per passenger per flight.

Etihad Airways

$100 per ticket.

Minor corrections allowed; full name changes require documentation.

Flydubai

Not allowed; rebooking required.

Name changes not permitted; rebooking under new name at current ticket price.

Qatar Airways

Minor corrections allowed; full changes not permitted.

Minor corrections allowed; full name changes not permitted.

Emirates

Minor corrections (up to 3 characters) free.

Full name changes not permitted.

Turkish Airlines

€20–€40 depending on flight length.

Name changes allowed; fees apply per passenger per flight.

Air France

$20–$35 depending on ticket issuance.

Name changes allowed; fees apply per passenger per flight.

Changing the name on an airline ticket can be a complex and costly process, varying significantly between airlines. Here’s an overview of name change fees and policies for several major carriers:

7. Frequent Flyer Accounts & Miles Bookings

If you used miles or points, the rules may be stricter. Many loyalty programs don’t allow any name changes—not even minor typos. Always double-check your account name before booking a reward flight.

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8. Avoiding Mistakes in the Future

✅ Double-check the spelling and order of names exactly as on your passport
✅ Avoid nicknames or abbreviations
✅ For group bookings, verify every detail before payment
✅ If in doubt, use middle names, but most airlines don’t require them

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9. Sell you ticket

If the airline allows a name change and you would like to resell your ticket, you can try to resell your ticket via our forum. Please note that you will need to find a person to fly on the exact dates and route as stated on the ticket. You must therefore grant a big discount.
But beware, there are many scammers in this area of ticket brokerage. Specially for buyers it is a bit risky.
See also: Beware of Flight Ticket Scams: Protect Yourself from Travel Traps!

Final Thoughts

Changing the name on an airline ticket isn’t always easy — but it’s not always impossible either. The key is to know your airline’s policy, act quickly, and come prepared. When in doubt, contact customer service and ask nicely—many agents will help if the request is reasonable and backed by proof.

✈️ Safe travels, and remember: triple-check that ticket before you hit “Book” button!

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