When booking a flight with American Airlines, it’s essential that the passenger’s name exactly matches the name on their government-issued ID or passport. Even a small spelling error can cause check-in problems or boarding delays. Understanding the American Airlines name change policy can help you correct eligible mistakes before your scheduled departure.

American Airlines allows minor and major name corrections for eligible unused tickets under specific conditions. However, tickets cannot be transferred to another person, meaning a passenger’s identity cannot be changed after the ticket has been issued.

This guide explains the American Airlines name correction rules, eligible changes, fees, required documents, and how to request a correction.

Can You Change the Name on an American Airlines Ticket?

American Airlines distinguishes between name corrections and name changes.

Name Corrections

Eligible passengers may request corrections for:

• Minor spelling mistakes.
• Typographical errors.
• Missing or incorrect letters.
• Legal name changes (such as after marriage or divorce).
• Corrections to match the passenger’s government-issued identification.

Depending on the itinerary, the correction may be completed in the existing reservation or require a new booking record (PNR).

Name Changes

American Airlines does not permit transferring a ticket to another traveler. If a different person needs to travel, a new ticket must be purchased in that passenger’s name.

American Airlines Name Correction Rules

Before requesting a correction, keep these important rules in mind:

• The passenger must remain the same person.
• Tickets are non-transferable.
• Minor corrections are available for eligible unused tickets.
• Some itineraries involving codeshare or partner airlines require a new reservation record (PNR) for the correction.
• The original passenger’s date of birth and gender information must remain unchanged during the correction process.
• Name corrections should generally be completed before departure, as changes may not be possible once airport control begins within 24 hours of departure.

Minor Name Corrections

Minor corrections generally include:

• Correcting spelling mistakes.
• Adding or removing missing letters.
• Correcting typographical errors.
• Adjusting the name to match the passenger’s ID.

For eligible American Airlines and American Eagle itineraries on unused tickets, these corrections can often be processed without changing the itinerary or fare. No name correction fee applies under the published guidelines for these eligible cases.

Major Name Corrections

Some bookings require a major name correction, including itineraries that involve:

• Codeshare flights.
• Partner airline segments.
• Certain fare inventories.

In these situations:

• A new reservation (PNR) may be required.
• The itinerary generally must remain the same.
• The original ticket is reissued as an even exchange when the published requirements are met.

Legal Name Changes

Passengers who have legally changed their name because of:

• Marriage
• Divorce
• Court order

may request a correction by providing supporting documentation.

Required documents may include:

• Updated passport.
• Government-issued photo ID.
• Marriage certificate.
• Divorce decree.
• Court order.

American Airlines reviews each request according to its published procedures.

American Airlines Name Change Fee

American Airlines does not charge a name correction fee for eligible minor name corrections covered under its official guidelines.

However:

• Certain complex itineraries may require additional processing.
• Tickets involving partner airlines may follow different procedures.
• If your itinerary cannot qualify for a name correction, purchasing a new ticket may be necessary.

How to Request an American Airlines Name Correction

Step 1: Review Your Reservation

Compare the passenger name on your booking with your passport or government-issued ID.

Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents

If applicable, gather:

• Passport
• Government-issued ID
• Marriage certificate
• Court order
• Other legal documentation

Step 3: Contact American Airlines

Contact American Airlines Reservations or the travel agency that issued your ticket.

Provide:

• Booking reference (PNR)
• Passenger name
• Ticket number
• Description of the correction
• Supporting documents, if required

Step 4: Receive Confirmation

Once your request has been reviewed, American Airlines will confirm whether the correction has been completed or if additional action is required.

Can You Transfer an American Airlines Ticket to Another Person?

No.

American Airlines tickets are issued to a specific passenger and cannot be transferred to another traveler after ticket issuance. If someone else needs to travel, a new reservation must be made.

Tips to Avoid Name Correction Issues

• Enter your name exactly as shown on your passport or government-issued ID.
• Double-check all passenger details before completing your booking.
• Review your confirmation email immediately after purchase.
• Request corrections as soon as you notice an error.
• Keep copies of your booking confirmation and supporting documents.

Conclusion

The American Airlines name change policy allows eligible passengers to correct spelling mistakes, typographical errors, and legal name changes while keeping the original traveler’s identity unchanged. Minor corrections on qualifying unused tickets are generally processed without a name correction fee, while more complex itineraries involving partner airlines may require additional procedures. Since American Airlines does not allow ticket transfers to another person, passengers should carefully review their booking details immediately after purchase and request any necessary corrections well before departure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)