{{{###}}}Does American Airlines Allow Name Changes on Tickets?

Traveling with American Airlines is convenient and comfortable, but one common question among passengers is whether you can change your name on a ticket ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310. Names on airline tickets must match the traveler’s identification exactly. A minor typo, a legal name change, or an attempt to transfer a ticket to someone else can all create issues at the airport. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore American Airlines’ policies, step-by-step procedures, restrictions, fees, and tips for ensuring your travel goes smoothly ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.

Why Name Accuracy is Crucial
The name on your ticket must match your official identification exactly ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310. This is a standard requirement for all airlines to ensure security, prevent fraud, and allow for smooth check-in and boarding processes.
Even small errors can cause:
Denied boarding at the airport

Delays during security checks


Issues with connecting flights or partner airlines

Travelers should always double-check their name before completing the booking process. However, mistakes can occur, and life events like marriage, divorce, or legal name changes can also require updates ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.

American Airlines Name Change Policy Overview
American Airlines separates name changes into two categories: minor name corrections and full name changes ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.
1. Minor Name Corrections
Minor corrections address small spelling mistakes or typographical errors that do not alter the structure of the name. Examples include:
“Jonh” instead of “John”

“Micheal” instead of “Michael”

These corrections are generally permitted without significant fees but require contacting customer service ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.
2. Full Name Changes
Full name changes involve replacing the ticket’s passenger name with an entirely different person or updating it due to legal changes such as marriage, divorce, or court orders. Full name changes are restricted and may require documentation. American Airlines reserves the right to deny major name changes to prevent fraud ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.

Eligibility for Name Changes
Not all tickets are eligible for name corrections ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310. Several factors affect eligibility:
Ticket Type
Flexible tickets are generally more accommodating for minor corrections, while non-refundable or discounted fares often come with strict restrictions. Promotional fares may not allow any changes at all.
Timeframe
The earlier you request a name correction, the higher the likelihood of approval. Last-minute corrections may be limited or incur higher fees ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.
Documentation Requirements
Minor corrections may require only an ID, while full name changes often need legal documentation such as a passport, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing a Name
Here’s how to request a name change on an American Airlines ticket ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310:
Step 1: Contact Customer Service
Reach out via phone, email, or the American Airlines website. Provide your booking reference and clearly state the name correction needed ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.
Step 2: Submit Required Documentation
Minor corrections: Passport or government-issued ID

Legal changes: Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310

Step 3: Pay Applicable Fees
Minor corrections are usually free, while major or legal corrections may require a fee. Confirm fees with customer service ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.
Step 4: Confirm the Update
After approval, verify that the ticket reflects the updated name. Keep confirmation emails or receipts for airport verification ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.

Fees and Costs
The cost of a name change depends on the type of correction ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310:
Minor Name Corrections
Usually free of charge

May require ID verification

Full Name Changes
Processing fees can range from $100 to $250

Additional fare differences may apply if a new ticket is required ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310

Special Circumstances
Marriage, divorce, or legal name changes may reduce or waive fees

Documentation is required


Restrictions and Exceptions
Certain rules restrict name changes on American Airlines tickets ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310:
Non-Transferable Tickets
Tickets cannot be transferred to another person. You cannot simply give your ticket to someone else.
Discounted or Promotional Fares
These tickets often have stricter rules and may not allow corrections.
Partner Airlines or Codeshares
If your itinerary involves a partner airline or codeshare, corrections may require special procedures and could involve a new booking ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.

Real-Life Examples
Example 1: Typo Correction
A traveler booked a ticket as “Jonh Smith” instead of “John Smith.” Customer service corrected the spelling after verifying the ID ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.
Example 2: Legal Name Change After Marriage
A passenger updated her ticket from “Emily Johnson” to “Emily Smith” after marriage. She provided a marriage certificate and American Airlines updated her ticket ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.
Example 3: Attempted Ticket Transfer
A traveler tried to transfer his ticket to a friend. American Airlines denied the request because full name transfers are not allowed ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.

Tips for a Smooth Name Change
Double-check your name when booking ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.

Keep ID and supporting documents handy.

Contact customer service early.

Save confirmation emails for airport verification ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.

FAQs
1. Can I transfer my ticket to someone else?
No, American Airlines does not allow full ticket transfers ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.
2. How long does a name correction take?
Minor corrections may take hours; major corrections could take days ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.
3. Are there fees for minor corrections?
Minor spelling corrections are typically free ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.
4. What documents are needed for a legal name change?
Passport, driver’s license, marriage certificate, or court order ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.
5. What happens if I notice a typo after travel?
Contact customer service immediately. Some corrections may still be possible ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310.

Final Summary
American Airlines allows minor corrections to tickets, but full name transfers are generally prohibited ? +1 ? 803 ? 335 ? 2310. Always double-check your name during booking, contact customer service early, and keep documentation handy. Understanding the policies, fees, and restrictions ensures a smooth and stress-free travel experience.