Wrong name on your plane ticket? Here’s how to fix it

Airlines take every precaution to ensure names are correct on airline tickets, but mistakes happen. A missing letter, a misspelled name, or even using a nickname can cause disruptions. For security purposes, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires that your ticket name matches your ID exactly. But don't panic. Here’s how you can fix plane ticket name errors and get your trip back on track.

October 1, 2024

Wrong name on your plane ticket? Here’s how to fix it

Why getting your name right matters

Airlines require that your ticket name precisely match your government-issued ID. This is to ensure the correct person is getting on board and so no one on a no-fly list boards the plane. This list is mandated by TSA, and airlines must comply with it for everyone’s safety. While the reasoning is understandable, even simple mistakes can lead to significant travel disruptions.

Common name errors and how to prevent them

Even the most seasoned travelers can fall victim to these common mistakes on their airline tickets:

Simple misspellings

Using a nickname

Entering names in the wrong order

Mistakes with married or hyphenated names

To avoid last-minute scrambling, take a few extra seconds to review your itinerary when booking. Make sure everything, especially your name, matches your passport or driver's license exactly. A few minutes now could save you headaches later during travel. After booking, also double check for accuracy.

How to fix plane ticket name errors

If you do happen to make it to the airport before you’ve noticed the error, here’s exactly what to do, informed by years of managing such speedbumps. The most important thing to note is that time is of the essence – the sooner you act, the better.

Contact your airline or travel agent immediately

As soon as you notice the mistake, give your airline or travel agent a call. Explain the situation clearly and have your booking information and a copy of your photo ID ready.

Understand airline name change policies

This is where it gets a bit tricky. Every airline has different policies for name changes. Some are lenient, fixing minor typos with a small fee or even free, especially for frequent flyers. Others can be more complicated, charging hefty fees or even requiring rebooking. Hopefully you never have to use it, but the chart below breaks down the policies and restrictions by airline.

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Airline	Name change policy	Phone number
American Airlines	Minor corrections, like a misspelled name, may be fixed for free within 24 hours of booking. Major name corrections may not be made within 24 hours of departure; rebooking may be required. Any associated fees are no longer applied.	800-433-7300
Delta Air Lines	Most minor name corrections may be made without contacting Delta for assistance. Travel agents may make a correction to the first or middle name and reissue the ticket without a waiver code. Major name corrections may require further assistance and incur a fee.	800-221-1212
Southwest Airlines	Known for its flexible policies, Southwest often allows name corrections free of charge. Correcting a mistake can be done online or via the app. Read more here. However, it's always best to confirm their latest policy, as rules can change.	800-435-9792
United Airlines	United Airlines allows name changes up to 2 hours before the scheduled departure for a fee of $200. Major corrections may require rebooking. Contact United for the most up-to-date policies for name corrections as some of this information may have changed.	800-864-8331

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Be prepared with documentation

Airlines must be cautious, which means you might need to provide extra documentation, especially for more complicated name changes. For legal name changes and passport copies, have marriage certificates, court documents, or passport copies ready. Any official document that proves Your identity is crucial—keep them handy.

Last-minute fixes and social media power

Mistakes happen, and sometimes you won’t realize a missing letter until you’re at the airport or a gate agent has flagged it. If you’re cutting it close, head straight to the airline's customer support desk. They'll try to help, though there's no guarantee.

If you’re on a layover, it's usually better to call customer service than rely on airport Wi-Fi. Explain the situation clearly and have your documents ready. While we’d never advise you to wait until the last minute, it is possible to make the correction and be on your way. Another option is to reach out to contact customer support through the airline’s social media channels – sometimes they respond quicker.

Conclusion

Fixing plane ticket name errors can be stressful, but it’s doable. Double and triple-check your information when booking flights. Should you find yourself on the wrong side of a ticketing error, act quickly. Understanding airline policies, reaching out to customer support ASAP, and having your documentation prepared can be key. Remember, you're not just a name on a ticket—you're a valued traveler ready for your next adventures.

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