A simple mistake while entering your name during a flight reservation can create unexpected challenges at the airport. Since airlines require your name to match your passport or government-issued ID exactly, even a minor spelling error, misplaced letter, or formatting issue can lead to check-in problems or denied boarding. This is why the flight booking name change process is a crucial aspect of modern air travel.

In 2025, airlines follow strict policies but also offer clear pathways for correcting passenger details. This article explains everything you need to know about fixing name errors—allowed corrections, restricted changes, documentation needs, fees, processing times, and practical tips to ensure a smooth correction.

What Does a Flight Booking Name Change Mean?

A flight booking name change refers to modifying the passenger name on an existing airline reservation. This can include:

• Typing error correction

• Adding or removing middle names

• Reversing first and last names

• Fixing merged or misformatted names

• Changing titles (Mr/Mrs/Ms/Miss)

• Updating a legally changed name

• In rare cases, replacing the entire passenger

The goal is always to make sure the ticket reflects the traveler’s legal identity exactly as shown on the passport.

Why Airlines Require Accurate Name Matching

Accurate names are mandatory because airlines share your booking information with:

• Airport security systems

• Immigration authorities

• International passenger data networks

• Government safety agencies

A mismatch may create complications such as:

• Failed online check-in

• Inability to generate boarding pass

• Delays at security

• Immigration mismatches

• Complete denial of boarding

In international travel, this becomes even more critical due to strict border control.

What Types of Name Changes Airlines Allow

Airlines understand that passengers can make mistakes, so most carriers allow specific corrections under the flight booking name change rule.

1. Small Spelling Corrections

Minor errors involving 1–3 letters can typically be fixed easily.

Examples:

• “Jasmien” → “Jasmine”

• “Davisn” → “Davison”

These changes do not alter passenger identity.

2. Middle Name Add or Remove

If a middle name was omitted or mistyped, airlines usually allow correction as long as the main name matches.

3. First and Last Name Reversal

This correction is common when booking systems autofill in reversed formats.

Example:

• “Nair Devika” → “Devika Nair”

4. Updating Title (Mr/Ms/Mrs)

Correcting titles is usually straightforward and does not require documents.

5. Legal Name Updates

Passengers who recently changed their names can update their tickets. Accepted scenarios include:

• Marriage

• Divorce

• Court-ordered name change

Documentation is required.

6. Formatting or Spacing Fixes

Airlines often approve corrections for spacing, hyphens, and merged names.

Example:

• “SoumyaPatil” → “Soumya Patil”

Name Changes Airlines Typically Do NOT Allow

Even though airlines allow certain corrections, they restrict others to prevent fraud or ticket reselling.

Airlines generally do not allow:

• Changing the ticket to a completely different person

• Swapping names between two passengers

• Adding nicknames or initials not in the ID

• Making changes to ultra-low-cost basic/saver fares

• Changing multiple passenger names in group bookings

• Updating full names without proof

If a change significantly alters a passenger’s identity, airlines require official documentation.

How to Perform a Flight Booking Name Change

Every airline has different procedures, but the process usually follows these steps:

Step 1: Access Manage Booking

Visit the airline’s website or app and enter your:

• Booking reference (PNR)

• Passenger last name

This opens your reservation details.

Step 2: Look for the Name Correction Option

Some airlines allow small corrections through self-service tools.

If no such option is available, proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Contact Customer Support

For moderate or major corrections, you must contact:

• Airline call center

• Email support

• Live chat agent

• Airport ticket office

Explain the error clearly and request a correction.

Step 4: Provide Necessary Documents

Commonly requested documents include:

• Passport copy

• National ID

• Marriage or divorce certificate

• Court-issued name change order

• Booking confirmation

Airlines may also require a written authorization for changes involving more than one character.

Step 5: Pay Applicable Fee

Fees depend on the type of correction and fare conditions.

Step 6: Receive Updated E-Ticket

The airline will issue a revised ticket. Verify the corrected name thoroughly before traveling.

Flight Booking Name Change Fees in 2025

Fees vary depending on the airline, ticket type, and route. Typical charges include:

Minor Spelling Fixes

₹500–₹1500 / $10–$25

Middle Name or Format Adjustments

₹1000–₹3000 / $15–$40

Legal Name Change

₹2500–₹7000 / $30–$90
Supporting documents required.

Full Passenger Name Replacement (rare)

₹5000–₹15000 / $60–$200
Fare difference may also apply.

Flexible and premium cabin tickets often allow lower or free corrections.

Documents Required for Name Correction

Depending on the type of name change, you may need:

• Government ID

• Passport

• Marriage certificate

• Divorce decree

• Court-issued legal name change order

• Booking details printout

• Signed authorization forms (for group bookings)

Submitting clear, valid, and legible documents ensures faster processing.

How Long Does the Name Change Take?

Processing time depends on the level of correction:

• Minor fixes: 10–20 minutes

• Medium corrections: 1–3 hours

• Legal name changes: 1–2 days

• Passenger replacement: 2–4 days

International itineraries may require additional security verification.

What Happens If You Don’t Correct the Name?

Failing to complete the flight booking name change process can result in:

• Check-in denial

• Problems with boarding passes

• Security mismatch issues

• Immigration complications

• Non-refundable ticket loss

• Being marked as a no-show

Correcting the name early prevents last-minute panic and financial loss.

Tips to Avoid Name Mistakes When Booking Flights

1. Always use your passport spelling

Do not use nicknames or variations.

2. Double-check before confirming payment

Most errors come from rushing.

3. Ensure full names are used

Make sure middle names are included if they appear on your passport.

4. Verify names when booking for others

Ask for a photo of their ID instead of relying on memory.

5. Make corrections immediately

The sooner you request, the easier it is for the airline to fix.

When Airlines Allow Free Name Corrections

Many airlines provide free corrections under these conditions:

• Error reported within 24 hours of booking

• Only a minor typo is fixed

• System auto-formatted the name incorrectly

• Identity remains unchanged

• Ticket booked directly with the airline

Third-party booking sites may still charge service fees.

Conclusion

A flight booking name change is an essential process when your ticket contains a mistake. Airlines require exact name matching for security and immigration compliance, but they also offer structured ways to fix errors before travel. Whether you’re correcting a small typo or updating a legally changed name, knowing the right steps and acting early ensures a smooth, stress-free journey.