American Airlines Name Change Policy

American Airlines Name Change Policy

It is very common to make a small mistake in your name when you book a flight. Sometimes, people book a flight ticket with their nickname rather than their official name. There can be issues with air travel due to the difference between the actual ticket and the government-issued identification. Because of this, American Airlines has designed specific name-change/correction policies.

The American Airlines Name Change Policy has policies to assist passengers who have made an honest mistake and ensure that the ticket matches the ID. Whether it be a simple typographical error or a legal name change from marriage, American Airlines provides options.

What is American Airlines' Name Change Policy?

According to American Airlines' policies and procedures, a passenger is allowed to correct a name on a ticket if it does not match the passport or a government-issued ID. If a passenger's flight ticket does not match, then you can face a delay in your flight due to a security check and may not let the traveler board t, he flight.

American Airlines will allow minor name changes, such as typos and spelling errors. Additionally, you can change major life events such as marriage, divorce, and legal name changes. Rules and fees for name changes may vary based on the nature of the name change.

Types of Name Changes Allowed on American Airlines

1. Minor Name Corrections

  • Fix of minor spelling errors (John instead of John).
  • Add or remove a middle name.
  • Fixing hyphenation or spacing.

2. Legal Name Changes

  • Name changes for marriage and divorce.
  • Court-awarded name changes.

3. Nickname to Legal Name

  • Changing a nickname to your full legal name.
  • For example, changing from Sam to Samuel.

Rules for American Airlines Name Change

Here are some of the main rules under the American Airlines name correction policy:

  • You can change your name to someone else's name with American Airlines.
     
  • The passenger who booked the ticket can request to correct and change the name.
     
  • Your name mentioned on the flight ticket should match the government ID.
     
  • Only one correction is allowed per ticket.
     
  • If you want to make major changes to a flight ticket, you have to submit proper documents.
     
  • If you have booked a ticket with the help of a third party, then you have to contact them to correct the name.

American Airlines Ticket Name Change Policy

 There are three simple methods to request your name change on American Airlines:

1. Official Website 

  • Visit the  American Airlines official website.
     
  • Click on “Manage Trips/Check-in.”
     
  • Enter your itinerary reference and surname.
     
  • Select the option to modify passenger information.
     
  • Attach any relevant documents if required.

2. By Phone

  • Call American Airlines customer service.
     
  • Read your booking number then tell them what needs to be corrected.
     
  • The agent may also request supporting documents.

3. At the Airport

  • Attend the ticket counter at the airport.
     
  • Provide your valid identification and ticket details.
     
  • Ask for your correction in person.

Name Change Fees American Airlines

The name change fee on American Airlines will be based on the type of change:

  • Minor corrections Usually free, or there will be a minor service charge.
     
  • Major legal name changes—This will be a new ticket, and you will pay whatever charges apply.
     
  • Third-party bookings—Additional fees could apply if purchased through agents.

American Airlines 24-Hour Free Name Change Policy

If you purchased your ticket with American Airlines (website, app, or customer service), then you can make your change or cancel your reservation without any payment or penalty within 24 hours.
If you have not changed the misspelling of your name during the timeframe, then you have to pay the fees. After 24 hours, regular correction fees and policies will apply.

Changing Names on Domestic vs. International Flights

Domestic Flights—Easier and quicker to change. Generally, it is just a few spelling fixes or minor adjustments made to the name.
International Flights—Relatively stringent ID and passport checks. Any minor name discrepancies may cause boarding problems. Some international name changes might require ticket reissuance and some change fees.

Why This Policy Matters? 

The American Airlines policy is primarily to ensure that your ticket matches your Government ID, which greatly reduces your chance of any issues at the airport. Security checks are very strict. And even a single wrong letter can lead to problems. If you want to fix your name on the ticket, then you can fix it very soon to avoid delays, stress, or missing your flight.

Tips to Minimize Errors with Names on an American Airlines Ticket

  • Always BOOK your ticket using the name exactly as it appears on your passport or government ID.
  • Double-check spelling before you Book.
  • Don't use a nickname or a shorter version of your first name.
  • If you want to change your name legally, then you have to update your frequent traveler profile or any airline accounts in advance.

Conclusion

It is quite common to make a mistake with your name when booking a ticket, but that is not the end of the world. The American Airlines name change policy allows you to easily fix a mistake in your name, whether it is a mistake like a typo or a legal name change after getting married.

The name mentioned on the flight ticket should match the name mentioned on the government ID. If you follow the rules and understand the process of name change process, you can avoid issues while traveling.

So, next time when you book a flight ticket with American Airlines, you have to check the details. If you make a mistake, don't forget you can always have it resolved through their simple name change policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, American Airlines does not allow the transfer of the ticket. You can only make a correction to the original passenger's name.

However, minor spelling corrections are usually free of charge. More significant legal changes may require a reissued ticket for a fee.

Yes. American Airlines allows passengers to change different names on the ticket at the airport. Passengers should check the details, and change or correct the name on the ticket before the flight departure date.

You will be required to submit a marriage license, divorce decree, or a court ordered name change.

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