If you need to change your name on an American Airlines ticket, it's important to understand the airline’s policies and procedures. Whether you've legally changed your name, made a typo during booking, or need to update your name for other reasons, American Airlines offers specific guidelines to handle name changes. Here's everything you need to know:
American Airlines offers flexibility for Minor and Major name corrections for wholly unused (001) validated tickets +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦.
Minor name corrections apply to itineraries that consist of American prime +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦 and American Eagle flights only and may be corrected in the same PNR. Itineraries ticketed in “R” inventory must follow Major Name Correction Guidelines.
Major name corrections apply to itineraries ticketed in “R” inventory, AA*/codeshare flight segments and Other Airline prime flight segments and require a new PNR/Order as a name correction cannot be made within the same PNR/Order due to restrictions put in place with American’s and other operating carrier’s operating systems.
1. Understanding American Airlines' Name Change Policy
American Airlines does allow name corrections or changes under certain circumstances, but it’s crucial to note that they do not offer full flexibility when it comes to altering a passenger's name completely +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦. Below are key things to know:
-
Name Corrections: If you made a simple typo when booking your flight (e.g., misspelling your first name or last name) +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦, American Airlines permits name corrections. These changes can usually be made without a significant fee.
-
Legal Name Changes: If you’ve legally changed your name (due to marriage, divorce, or any other reason) +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦, American Airlines allows for a name change, but there might be documentation requirements, and fees could apply.
-
Full Name Change: If you're trying to change your name entirely (for instance, if you want to transfer your ticket to someone else) +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦, American Airlines typically does not allow this. In such cases, you may need to cancel the existing ticket and book a new one.
Can I transfer an American Airlines ticket to another person?
The largest airline in the U.S., American does not allow passengers to transfer a ticket to another person for more info call +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦. However, the airline will let most passengers transfer their tickets to another flight prior to the departure time of their original flight.
Can you change the name of a passenger on a booked flight?
You cannot transfer the ticket to another person. If you have a legal name change, through the likes of marriage or divorce +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦, you will be able to change your ticket to reflect this for free – if you provide the relevant legal documentation.
2. Steps to Change or Correct Your Name
a. For Name Corrections (Minor Changes)
If you made a minor typo, like swapping two letters or adding/removing an extra letter, follow these steps:
-
Contact American Airlines Customer Service: Call the customer service number +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦 or use the airline's online chat support to request the name correction.
-
Provide Documentation: In some cases, you may need to provide a copy of your passport or ID to verify your identity and the correction.
-
Pay Fees (if applicable): Minor corrections might be free of charge, but in certain situations +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦, American Airlines could charge a fee depending on the nature of the change or the fare rules of your ticket.
-
Confirmation: After the correction is processed, confirm that your name has been updated properly in the airline’s system +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦. You should receive an updated itinerary reflecting the correction.
b. For Legal Name Changes (Major Changes)
If you've undergone a legal name change and need to update your ticket, follow these steps:
-
Contact American Airlines: Reach out to American Airlines either via their customer service phone number +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦 or online support to initiate the name change request.
-
Submit Documentation: You may be asked to provide legal documentation +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or government-issued ID that shows your new name.
-
Possible Fees: A legal name change might incur a fee, depending on the ticket type and fare conditions +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦. Be prepared for possible additional charges.
-
Wait for Confirmation: After processing, ensure that you receive confirmation that your name has been officially updated.
c. For Major Name Changes (Full Name Transfer)
As mentioned earlier, full name changes or ticket transfers are typically not allowed on American Airlines +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦. If you are looking to transfer your ticket to another person, American Airlines generally does not permit this +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦. You would need to cancel your current booking and purchase a new ticket.
3. Things to Keep in Mind When Changing Your Name
-
Ticket Type: Whether your name change is free or incurs a fee can depend on the fare rules of your specific ticket +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦. For example, non-refundable or basic economy fares may have stricter rules and higher fees.
-
International Flights: For international travel, the name on your ticket must match the name on your passport exactly +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦. Any discrepancies could lead to delays or denial of boarding, so it's crucial to correct your name well before your departure date.
-
Flight Status: If your flight is already approaching, it’s essential to make name changes as soon as possible +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦. Last-minute changes might not be processed in time.
-
Alternative Options: If you're unable to make the desired name change on your existing ticket, consider canceling your flight and rebooking under the correct name +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦. You may receive a refund or travel credit, depending on the ticket's terms.
4. How to Contact American Airlines for Name Changes
You can reach American Airlines customer service through the following methods:
-
Phone: Call American Airlines' toll-free customer service number at +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦.
-
Online: Visit their website and use the live chat option to ask about your name change request.
-
Airport: For last-minute issues, you can also visit an American Airlines ticket counter at the airport, but this may involve waiting times.
Conclusion
Changing your name on an American Airlines ticket is relatively straightforward, but it depends on the nature of the change. Minor corrections, such as fixing a typo +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦, are usually simple and free, while legal name changes might require documentation and could incur a fee. Be aware that full name transfers are generally not allowed, so planning ahead is essential. Always double-check the details before finalizing any changes to avoid complications on your travel day.
For any name changes or corrections, it’s best to reach out to American Airlines as early as possible to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process.
Can you transfer a plane ticket to someone else's name?
Most airlines do not allow changing the name of the passenger once the flight is booked +𝟣-𝟪𝟧𝟨-𝟤𝟦𝟨-𝟧𝟦.𝟦𝟦, meaning you cannot transfer the flight ticket to another person. The ticket is usually non-transferable.