It is easy to accidentally misspell your name when booking a trip. Maybe you did not notice that something was wrong when you entered your details, or perhaps you pressed the wrong key on your keyboard or phone. It may also be that autofill entered your name incorrectly.
Even if the name on the airline ticket has been misspelled, it can usually be corrected. Airlines are used to these kinds of mistakes and generally have procedures in place to handle them. At the same time, it is important to act quickly when you discover the error, since timing often determines whether it remains a minor annoyance or risks affecting your trip.
Is it allowed to fly with a misspelled name on your airline ticket?
According to international aviation rules, the name in the booking must match the name on your passport or driver’s license. If letters have been mixed up, or if you use a shortened form of your name, for example Tony instead of Anthony, it does not meet the airlines’ security requirements. Airlines must be able to ensure that the person boarding is the same person the ticket was issued to, and that the person is not on any no-fly list.
Immigration authorities must also be able to ensure that travelers are identified correctly. When names match, this process becomes easier, while also reducing the risk of unintended or unlawful entry or exit.
How to correct your name on your airline ticket
Airlines usually do not allow you to change the name on your ticket without contacting customer service. They want to make sure that it is you who will be flying and that you are not giving the ticket to someone else, since tickets generally cannot be transferred. Still, some airlines allow customers to make minor changes themselves through their login page.
Some airlines have deadlines for making ticket changes. Be prepared to provide your booking reference number and proof of the correct spelling of your name, such as a passport, driver’s license, or other official identification. Some airlines may ask for these documents to be sent by email or uploaded through their customer service portal if you update the ticket by phone.
Keep in mind that some airlines may charge an extra fee to change the name on airline tickets.
How much time do I have to change the name?
The general rule is that you should do it at least 24 hours before departure.
What happens if my name has changed since I bought my airline ticket?
If you need to update the name on your airline ticket due to marriage, divorce, or other legal name changes, you only need to provide proof at the airport or to the airline.