|
Booking a flight with an incorrect name on your ticket can be stressful, but American Airlines provides a process to help passengers make necessary corrections. Whether it’s a minor typo or a legal name change due to marriage or divorce, the American Airlines name change policy outlines the steps you need to follow.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explain the airline’s rules on name changes, what corrections are allowed, how to request a name change, and other important considerations to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Does American Airlines Allow Name Changes?
Yes, American Airlines allows certain name changes and corrections, but with some limitations. The airline permits minor spelling corrections and legal name updates, but does not allow full name changes that transfer the ticket to another person.
Below are the types of name changes that are permitted under the American Airlines policy:
? Minor Name Corrections
Passengers can correct minor spelling errors, missing letters, or format issues in their name. Examples include:
"Katherine" to "Catherine"
"Jon" to "John"
"Juli" to "Julie"
? Legal Name Changes
If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or legal proceedings, American Airlines allows you to update your ticket name. You will need to submit valid documents such as:
Marriage certificate (for newly married travelers)
Divorce decree (if reverting to a previous last name)
Court order for an official name change
Government-issued ID or passport reflecting the updated name
? Name Formatting Adjustments
If your ticket has a formatting issue, such as the first and last names being reversed, American Airlines allows modifications to match your passport or government-issued ID. Some examples include:
"Doe John" instead of "John Doe"
Missing a middle name or initial
Hyphenation issues with last names (e.g., "Smith-Jones" instead of "Smith Jones")
???? Name Changes That Are NOT Allowed
While American Airlines does allow name corrections, the following changes are not permitted:
Transferring a ticket to another person – The airline does not allow name changes that completely replace the original passenger with someone else.
Multiple name corrections – Once a name correction has been made, further changes might not be allowed.
Nicknames to full names – If you booked a ticket under a nickname (e.g., "Mike" instead of "Michael"), you may need to request a correction before traveling.
How to Request an American Airlines Name Change
If you need to make a name correction, follow these steps:
Step 1: Review Your Ticket for Errors
Before requesting a name change, compare your ticket with your passport or government-issued ID to confirm the correction needed.
Step 2: Contact American Airlines
To request a name change, you can:
???? Call American Airlines Customer Service at 1-800-433-7300
???? Visit an American Airlines ticket counter at the airport
???? Reach out to your travel agent (if you booked through a third-party service)
Step 3: Provide Necessary Documents
If your name change is due to a legal reason, you must submit:
???? Marriage certificate (if changing last name after marriage)
???? Divorce decree (if reverting to a previous name)
???? Court order (for an official name change)
???? Passport or government-issued ID showing the updated name
Step 4: Pay Any Applicable Fees
Minor spelling corrections (up to three characters) are often free.
Legal name changes may require a fee depending on your ticket type.
Same-day name corrections may incur additional charges, so request changes as soon as possible.
Key Things to Keep in Mind
? Always Double-Check Your Name When Booking – Ensure your ticket matches your government-issued ID to avoid complications at the airport.
? Your Ticket Name Must Match Your Passport or ID – If your ticket name doesn’t match your official documents, you may not be allowed to board your flight.
? Only One Name Change is Allowed Per Ticket – If additional corrections are needed, you might have to cancel and rebook your flight.
? Mileage Program Considerations – If you are an AAdvantage member, ensure your frequent flyer account name matches your legal name to avoid issues with earning miles.
Final Thoughts
The American Airlines name change » policy is designed to help passengers correct minor errors or update their name for legal reasons. While small corrections are often free, legal name changes may require documentation and a fee.
To avoid last-minute problems, always check your ticket details when booking. If you spot a mistake, contact American Airlines as soon as possible for assistance.
| 
Share