American Airlines Name Change Policy: A Detailed Guide for Travelers

Traveling is always exciting, but sometimes after booking the ticket, you find out that the name is misspelled, so there is no need to worry. If you are traveling with American Airlines and need to get your name corrected, then this guide is for you.

In this detailed guide, we will highlight the following:

• How the name can be changed or corrected?
• What types of changes are allowed?
• What is the complete process of name change?
• And under what circumstances documents are required.

Our goal is to provide you with all the information you need so that you can easily understand and complete the process of name correction on an American Airlines ticket.

Why is it important to get the name right?

First of all, it is important to understand that the name on your flight ticket must be exactly the same as it appears on your valid identity card (such as your passport, Aadhaar card, driving license, etc.). Even a minor spelling mistake or a missed letter can cause you serious problems during check-in, security checks, or boarding. Airlines and airports have very strict security rules, and any mismatch between the name on your ID card and the name on the ticket can prevent you from flying.

For this reason, it is extremely important to get the correction done immediately as soon as you realize that the name on the ticket is wrong. The sooner you act on it, the less hassle and potential fees you will face.

Does American Airlines allow name changes on tickets?

Yes, American Airlines allows name corrections under certain specific circumstances. It is important to understand that ‘name change’ and ‘name correction’ are two different concepts. American Airlines allows you to make minor name corrections, but they do not allow the ticket to be transferred to another person.

Allowed corrections:

• Spelling mistakes.
• Adding or deleting a middle name.
• Legal name change due to marriage/divorce.

What is not allowed:

You cannot transfer your ticket to another person’s name. If the original passenger cannot travel, the only option is to cancel the ticket and book a new ticket for the new passenger. This policy is enforced for security reasons and to prevent ticket misuse.

It is important to note that name changes are not allowed in certain cases, such as if the ticket is non-refundable, if the departure date is too close, or if the change is not allowed according to the fare rules. In such cases, you will have to contact the airline directly to clarify the situation.

Which name changes are allowed?

American Airlines mainly allows name corrections that do not change the passenger’s identity but clarify it.

✅ 1. Correcting a Typo or Spelling Mistake:

This is the most common type of correction. If you have mistakenly written “Raul” instead of “Rahul”, or “Shrama” instead of “Sharma”, American Airlines easily corrects such minor spelling mistakes. Usually, there is no charge for such corrections provided they are reported on time and the mistake is clearly a typo and not a completely wrong name. For example, if your name is “Rajesh Kumar” and you mistakenly typed “Rakesh Kumar”, it can be considered a minor spelling mistake provided the rest of the details like date of birth, gender, etc. match.

✅ 2. Adding/Removing Middle Name:

Many times while booking, the middle name (such as “Singh” or “Kumar” if it is not part of your first or last name) is left out, or only the initial is written. For example, if you have “Priya Kumari Sharma” on your passport and you have written only “Priya Sharma” on the ticket, you can add “Kumari”. Similarly, if you do not have a middle name on your identity card but it has appeared on the ticket by mistake, it can be removed. For international flights, exact matching of the name is important, so it is important to have the correct middle name.

✅ 3. Legal Name Change Due to Marriage/Divorce:

This is a legal name change that happens for a valid reason. If your legal name has changed after marriage (for example, changing from Miss to Mrs.) or divorce (reverting to your original name), you can update it. This type of change requires you to submit legal documents that prove the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or affidavit of name change. It is important to make sure that your new name is updated on your new identification as well.

What changes are not allowed?

As mentioned earlier, American Airlines does not allow you to give your ticket to someone else. This policy is a standard in the airline industry and is part of security protocol and revenue protection.

In some other cases, name changes are not allowed, or can be extremely complicated:

• If the ticket is non-refundable: Some very cheap tickets are non-refundable and do not allow any changes, including name correction. In such cases, you will have to contact the airline directly to get the best solution.
• Too Close to Departure Date: If your flight is within a few hours, there may be little or no time for name correction. In such a case, you will have to go directly to the American Airlines counter at the airport and clarify the situation, but success is not guaranteed.
• Fare Rules Don’t Allow Changes: Some specific fare classes or promotional tickets may not allow any kind of changes, even minor corrections. Always check the fare rules of your booking.

How to Change Name on American Airlines Ticket

If you are wondering how to change or correct your name on American Airlines, the process is pretty straightforward if you follow the right steps:

🔹Step 1: Identify the Error

First and foremost, clearly identify what the mistake is. Is it a minor spelling error (like ‘Smith’ replaced by ‘Smyth’)? Is the middle name missing or wrong? Or is it a legal name change due to marriage/divorce? The process and required documents will depend on the type of mistake.

🔹 Step 2: Contact American Airlines

After identifying the mistake, the next step is to contact American Airlines. You have several options:

Call: Call American Airlines customer service at 1-800-433-7300. This is the most effective method for legal name changes or more complex issues, as you can speak to a representative directly.

Visit the website: Visit aa.com. There may be an option to manage your booking in the ‘My Trips’ section on the website, where some small corrections can be made online.

Visit the nearest airport: If you have time and are close to the airport, you can go directly to the American Airlines counter. This can be helpful for cases where you need assistance immediately or if you have a legal name change document that needs to be submitted in person.

Live chat: There may also be a live chat option available on the American Airlines website. This can be useful for minor questions or spelling corrections that are not too complex.

🔹 Step 3: Keep Documents Ready

Depending on the type of mistake, you may have to provide supporting documents:

For a legal name change: You will need to show valid documents proving your name change. This may include your old and new valid identity card (such as a passport), marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court document. Make sure these documents are originals or certified copies.

For a minor spelling mistake: Usually, documents are not required for a minor spelling mistake, provided the mistake is clearly a typo and does not affect your identity. However, sometimes the airline may ask you for a copy of your identity card to confirm that the correction is correct.

🔹 Step 4: Fees May Apply

This is an important aspect. There is usually no fee for a minor spelling mistake, especially if you report it soon after booking. However, some international or more complex bookings, or if the correction is reported late, may incur a fee. It is important to confirm the fee with an American Airlines representative when you contact them. If there is a fee, make sure you understand it and are prepared to pay it.

Online vs. Offline Name Change

• Online: Small spelling mistakes (typos) or minor corrections can often be corrected online, especially if American Airlines’ system allows it. Try managing your booking in the ‘My Trips’ section. If the edit option is available, you can correct there.
• Offline: For legal name changes or more complex bookings, calling customer service or visiting an airport counter is the best option. These cases require in-person assistance and document verification.

When should I make a name change?

The sooner you discover the mistake, the better it is to act. Last-minute name changes can be very risky and may even prevent you from flying.

• Some name change processes can take 24-72 hours, especially if it involves document verification.
• If you try to change the name on the day of the flight, you may not have enough time and may be denied boarding.

How to Correct Name on American Airlines Ticket After Booking

If you discover the mistake after booking, follow these steps:

1. Login to American Airlines account: Login to your American Airlines account at aa.com.
2. Check the travel section: Go to the ‘My Trips’ or ‘Trip’ section and view your booking details.
3. Look for the edit option: See if there is an option available to edit the name or passenger details. If yes, use it and make the necessary corrections.
4. Call customer support: If you don’t find an online editing option, immediately call American Airlines customer service at 1-800-433-7300.
5. Explain the mistake clearly: Clearly explain your mistake to the representative and what you need to be corrected.
6. Send required documents: If necessary, send any documents requested by the representative (such as a copy of an ID, or marriage certificate) by email or fax.

For Users Who Booked Through Third-Party Sites

If you booked through a third-party booking site (such as Expedia, MakeMyTrip, or Kayak) or a travel agent rather than the American Airlines website, you’ll need to contact them first to correct the name. The airline may be hesitant to make the change directly unless the agent approves or the airline’s rules allow direct changes. The travel agent or booking site has primary control of your booking. Contact them, explain your issue, and follow their instructions. They can coordinate with American Airlines.

Updating AAdvantage Account Name

If you are an American Airlines frequent flyer member and the name in your AAdvantage account is incorrect or has changed, it is important to update it as well. This will ensure that your flights and miles are associated with the correct account.

1. Login: Login to your AAdvantage account at aa.com.
2. Profile section: Go to ‘Profile’ and open the ‘Personal Info’ section.
3. Edit Name: You will find the option to ‘Edit Name’.
4. Upload Documents: If the name change is legal, you may need to upload or send supporting documents (such as a marriage certificate).
5. Verify: Save the changes and confirm that the name has been updated correctly.
6. Helpful Tips for Easy Name Correction
7. Double-check names at the time of booking: While booking the ticket, first check the spelling of your name and the names of your traveling companions carefully at least twice. Match the name with your identity card.

• Act quickly: Contact American Airlines immediately as soon as you discover the mistake. Avoid last-minute changes, as they can be more expensive or may not be possible.
• Keep documents ready: If you have to get a legal name change done, keep all the necessary documents (e.g. marriage certificate, passport) ready in advance.
• Don’t try to issue a ticket in someone else’s name: American Airlines does not allow ticket transfers. Trying to violate this rule may result in the cancellation of your ticket and loss of money.
• Save the confirmation email: After the name correction is done, save the confirmation email you receive from American Airlines. This will be helpful for your records and in case of any discrepancy in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions – Common Questions

Q.1 Is it free to correct a typo?

Yes, minor spelling mistakes (typos) are usually corrected for free, especially if you report it soon after booking or within a reasonable timeframe. However, if the mistake is too big or relates to an international booking, a fee may apply.

Q.2 Can I transfer the ticket to someone else?

No, American Airlines does not allow ticket transfers. If the original passenger cannot travel, a new ticket must be booked for the new passenger. Canceling the original ticket may or may not get you a refund depending on the fare rules.

Q.3 What is the problem if you have a missing middle name?

For domestic flights, a missing middle name is often not a big problem, provided the first and last name match your ID. However, for international flights, your name must be exactly the same as on your identity card (especially your passport), including the middle name. If it doesn’t match, you may have problems during check-in or immigration.

Q.4 How long does a name correction take?

A common spelling mistake (typo) is often corrected immediately or within a few hours. Legal name changes, which involve document verification, may take 1-3 business days. Always confirm the estimated time frame with the airline.

Q.5 What happens if I travel with a mistake in my name?

This is not highly recommended. As mentioned earlier, any mismatch in the name on your identity card and ticket may prevent you from check-in, security check, or boarding. Airline and airport staff may refuse to allow you to travel if the name is mismatched. This can be a loss of both your money and time.

Final Words

Misspelling your name may seem like a big deal, but getting it right with American Airlines isn’t as difficult as it seems – it’s just important to understand and follow the correct procedure.

If you’re wondering how to change your name on American Airlines, act as quickly as possible, have your documents ready, and don’t hesitate to talk to American Airlines customer service. Likewise, if you’re wondering how to correct your name on an American Airlines ticket, this guide will have you covered.

Remember, being proactive and understanding the rules can save you from any travel-related hassles. Reach out for help if you need it:

📞 American Airlines Customer Service: 1-800-433-7300

🌐 Website: www.aa.com