A flight ticket with the wrong passenger name may not seem serious at first, but airlines treat name accuracy as a strict security requirement. Even a small spelling error or missing letter can lead to delays, failed check-in, or outright boarding denial. This is why the flight booking name change process is so important for travelers in 2025.

Airlines allow certain types of corrections, but the rules are detailed, and the process must be followed carefully. This professional article explains everything you need to know about fixing names on flight tickets—allowed and restricted changes, documentation requirements, fees, timelines, and best practices for stress-free name corrections.

What Is a Flight Booking Name Change?

A flight booking name change means modifying the passenger’s name on a confirmed airline reservation to match their legal identification. It can involve:

• Fixing spelling mistakes

• Correcting misplaced or reversed name order

• Adding or removing a middle name

• Updating titles or honorifics

• Adjusting formatting issues like spacing or hyphens

• Updating a legal name after marriage/divorce

• Rare cases of full passenger replacement

Airlines only permit these changes under strict guidelines.

Why Airlines Require Exact Name Matching

Airlines must verify passenger identity through:

• Airport security systems

• Immigration databases

• API (Advance Passenger Information) submissions

• Anti-fraud checks

• International travel regulations

A mismatch between the passenger’s ID and the name on the booking may cause:

• Online check-in failure

• Rejection at check-in counters

• Troubles during security screening

• Delayed or denied boarding

• Loss of ticket value in some cases

This makes correcting the name before traveling essential.

Types of Name Changes Airlines Usually Allow

Airlines understand mistakes can happen, so they permit specific corrections under the flight booking name change rule.

1. Minor Spelling Mistakes

The most common corrections include minor errors such as:

• Extra letters

• Missing letters

• Typing errors

• Phonetic misspellings

Example: “Kavin” → “Kevin”

These changes do not alter the passenger’s identity.

2. Middle Name Corrections

If the passenger forgot to add their middle name or typed it incorrectly, most airlines permit adjustments.

Example: adding “Kumar” to “Ravi Kumar Singh”.

3. First Name / Last Name Order Reversal

Many travelers using non-Western naming formats mistakenly reverse their names.

Example: “Chandra Bina” → “Bina Chandra”

These corrections are typically easy to process.

4. Title Adjustments

Changing Mr/Ms/Mrs/Miss to the correct version is usually permitted without major documentation.

5. Legal Name Updates

If the passenger legally changed their name, airlines allow updates with valid proof, such as:

• Marriage certificate

• Divorce decree

• Court-approved name change order

• Updated passport or ID

Legal name changes require more verification.

6. Formatting Fixes

Corrections involving spacing, hyphens, or merged names are typically allowed.

Example: “AnjaliVerma” → “Anjali Verma”.

Name Changes Airlines Often Do NOT Allow

Airlines restrict major modifications to prevent fraud, ticket reselling, and misuse.

Most carriers do not permit:

• Changing the ticket to an entirely different passenger

• Switching names between two travelers

• Adding nicknames or initials not in the ID

• Major changes without documents

• Modifying basic/saver fares that do not allow name changes

• Correcting multiple passengers in one PNR without proof

Full passenger name substitutes are usually reserved for flexible or premium tickets and may require heavy fees.

How to Request a Flight Booking Name Change

The process varies depending on the airline and booking channel, but these steps apply to most cases.

Step 1: Access Manage Booking

Go to the airline’s website or mobile app and enter:

• Booking reference (PNR)

• Passenger last name

This will open the itinerary.

Step 2: Look for a “Name Correction” Option

Some airlines allow small corrections through self-service tools.

Examples of allowed online fixes:

• 1–2 letter corrections

• Title changes

• Formatting adjustments

For everything else, proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Contact the Airline’s Customer Support

For moderate or major corrections, contact support through:

• Phone helpline

• Official email

• Live chat

• Airport office

Explain the exact error clearly to avoid miscommunication.

Step 4: Provide Documentation

Depending on the type of correction, airlines may require:

• Passport or government ID scan

• Marriage certificate

• Divorce decree

• Court-ordered name change

• Booking confirmation screenshot

These documents verify the identity and prevent fraudulent changes.

Step 5: Pay Applicable Fee

Name correction charges differ based on airline policy and fare conditions.

Step 6: Receive the Updated Ticket

Airlines send a corrected e-ticket. Verify the name again to ensure accuracy.

Flight Booking Name Change Fees in 2025

Typical fee ranges include:

Minor Corrections (spelling, spacing, letter fixes)

₹500–₹1500 or $10–$25

Middle Name or Name Order Adjustments

₹1000–₹3000 or $15–$40

Legal Name Change Corrections

₹2500–₹7000 or $30–$90
Documents mandatory.

Full Passenger Replacement (rare and airline-specific)

₹5000–₹15000 or $60–$200

• Fare difference may apply

Flexible fare and premium class tickets usually have fewer restrictions and lower fees.

Documents Required for Name Change Requests

Airlines may ask for:

• Passport or government ID

• Marriage certificate

• Divorce decree

• Legal name change certificate

• Updated passport copy

• Airline correction request form (if applicable)

• Signed authorization for group booking corrections

Providing clear, unedited, and valid documents accelerates the approval process.

How Long Does the Name Change Take?

Processing depends on the level of correction:

• Minor corrections: 10–30 minutes

• Moderate corrections: 1–3 hours

• Legal name changes: 24–48 hours

• Full passenger replacement: 2–4 days

For international bookings, verification may take longer due to cross-border security checks.

Consequences of Not Correcting Name Errors

If the flight booking name change process is ignored, travelers may face:

• Inability to complete online check-in

• Boarding refusal

• Immigration mismatches

• Ticket loss due to no-show

• High charges for last-minute rebooking

• Delayed or denied travel

Correct the error as early as possible to avoid these complications.

Tips to Avoid Name Issues When Booking Flights

1. Use exact passport spelling

Match all characters exactly as shown on the ID.

2. Avoid nicknames or abbreviations

Names must be official and legally recognized.

3. Review details before payment

A quick double-check prevents costly corrections.

4. Be careful when booking for others

Always ask for an ID photo to avoid guessing names.

5. Make corrections immediately after booking

Airlines are more flexible when notified early.

6. Keep legal documents accessible

Especially important for recently married or legally name-changed passengers.

When Airlines Allow Free Name Changes

You may qualify for a free correction when:

• The error is reported within 24 hours

• Only a small spelling fix is needed

• The airline system formatted the name incorrectly

• Identity remains unchanged

• Ticket was booked directly with the airline

Booking through third-party platforms may result in extra service fees despite airline leniency.

Conclusion

A flight booking name change is an essential process for ensuring your ticket matches your legal identification. Airlines allow specific corrections, but the rules must be followed precisely. Whether you’re fixing a small typo or updating a legally changed name, understanding the process, submitting the correct documents, and acting early ensures smooth travel without unexpected delays or penalties.