Sometimes, travel plans change, and minor errors tend to creep in when booking a flight. Among the common issues that passengers have to face is their name being wrong on an airline ticket. This article aims to tell you what changes are allowed and what are not, in simple and easy words, while flying with British Airways if your ticket name is wrong. This guide explains British Airways name change rules in very easy and simple words.
Can you change the name on a British Airways ticket?
British Airways does not permit full name changes. This means you cannot transfer the ticket to another person. The name in the ticket should always be the name of the actual passenger.
British Airways, though, does permit minor name corrections under specific circumstances. These minor corrections are to rectify genuine typographical errors or spelling mistakes only, rather than altering ownership of the ticket.
What are the name changes allowed on British Airways?
British Airways does permit small name corrections if the error is genuine and accidental. Examples of some common allowed corrections include:
Spelling Mistakes
Generally, British Airways permits correction if your name has a minor error, like one or two wrong letters.
Example:
Jhon → John
Smih → Smith
Missing or Extra Letters
If a letter has been mistakenly added or deleted, it can be corrected.
Title Corrections
Changing titles such as Mr, Mrs, Ms or Miss is normally permitted.
Legal Name Changes
British Airways may permit correction in your name, in case of marriage, divorce, or any other legal change. You may have to attach supporting documents, as
Marriage Certificate
Divorce papers
Proof of legal name change
First Name and Middle Name Adjustments
Minor name differences in first and middle name are sometimes accepted if this is what appears on your passport.
What name changes are NOT allowed?
British Airways has strict rules regarding what it does not allow. These include:
Full Name Change:
The full name cannot be changed to be from a completely different person.
Example: Rahul Sharma → Amit Verma (Not allowed)
Ticket Transfer
British Airways does not allow ticket transfer. Your ticket cannot be transferred to another person.
Major Name Changes
The change of name should not be too big and appear like a new passenger, or it will be rejected.
After Check-in
In general, once online check-in or airport check-in is done, a change of name is not possible.
How can I request a name correction with British Airways?
You can request a name correction in the following ways:
Online (Manage My Booking): Log in to Manage My Booking from the British Airways website. Some minor corrections might be requested online.
Customer Support: British Airways customer support should be contacted to help correct names, especially for legal name changes.
Travel Agent: If you booked your ticket through a travel agency, please contact them directly for assistance.
Does British Airways charge a fee for name changes?
Minor spelling corrections may be free of charge.
Some corrections may entail a name correction fee.
Fare difference may apply in certain cases.
Prices will vary depending on ticket type, route, and timing of request.
Final Thoughts
British Airways allows only minor corrections in names. It does not allow full name changes. If there is an error, inform the airline or the travel agent as soon as possible. It will be easier to correct small errors once they are reported. Understanding such rules can save you time, stress, and extra charges before your journey.
FAQ’s
Can I change the full name on a British Airways ticket?
No, British Airways does not allow a full name change. You cannot change the ticket to a completely different person.
Does British Airways permit spelling corrections?
Yes, British Airways does allow minor spelling corrections. The mistake must be small and must match your passport.
Can the passenger name be changed after booking?
Only minor name corrections will be allowed. Major name changes or passenger replacement will not be allowed.
Is it possible to change the name after check-in?
No. Normally, once checked in, it is not possible to change names.
How much does British Airways charge for a name correction?
Small spelling corrections may be free. Some changes may be assessed a name correction fee. Fare difference may apply, depending on the ticket type.
Can I request a name correction online?
Yes. For eligible corrections, you can use Manage My Booking on the British Airways website.
What are the documents needed for changing a legal name?
You might be required to give:
Marriage certificate
Divorce Decree
Legal name change document
Is it possible to transfer my British Airways ticket to someone else?
No. British Airways tickets are not transferable.
If my name is completely wrong, what must I do?
If the error in the name is major, immediately inform British Airways customer support about it; sometimes, this may involve booking a new ticket.
