When booking a flight with KLM, passengers should make sure that the name entered on the reservation matches their passport or government-issued ID. A simple spelling mistake can create problems during check-in, passport verification, or boarding. Understanding the KLM Airlines Name Change Policy can help you correct an error before your journey.

KLM allows passengers to request corrections for genuine typing mistakes. If you booked directly through KLM and are traveling on KLM, Air France, or Delta Air Lines, you can contact KLM to request a name correction. If another partner airline operates one of the flights, KLM recommends submitting the request at least 72 hours before departure.

A name correction is different from transferring a ticket to another traveler. KLM’s conditions of carriage state that tickets are generally non-transferable and transportation is provided to the passenger named on the ticket.

This guide explains KLM name correction rules, applicable fees, partner-airline requirements, ticket transfer restrictions, and how to request a correction.

Can You Change the Name on a KLM Ticket?

KLM distinguishes between correcting a name and changing the passenger.

Name Correction

If your name contains a genuine typo, KLM can correct it so that your ticket contains the correct passenger name. This applies when the passenger remains the same person.

Examples may include:

• A misspelled first name.
• A misspelled surname.
• A typing error.
• An incorrectly entered name.

Changing the Passenger

You cannot replace your name with another person’s name. KLM specifically states that the ticket remains in the original passenger’s name.

KLM’s conditions of carriage also state that a ticket may not be transferred, subject to applicable law and regulations.

KLM Name Correction Rules

Before requesting a correction, keep the following rules in mind:

• The passenger must remain the same person.
• KLM tickets are generally non-transferable.
• Genuine typing mistakes can be corrected.
• Partner-airline itineraries may require additional processing.
• Requests involving another operating airline should be made at least 72 hours before departure.
• Travel-agent bookings should generally be handled through the travel agent.

KLM also explains that some differences in how a name appears in the reservation are normal and don’t require correction.

Name Situations That Do Not Require Correction

KLM specifically says that you don’t need to request a correction in certain situations.

Multiple First Names

If you have multiple first names but only the first name appears in your booking, this does not necessarily mean there is an error. KLM states that displaying only one first name can be correct.

Maiden Name

You may not need a correction if you used your maiden name, provided it corresponds to the surname shown in the machine-readable zone (MRZ) of your passport.

Name Without Spaces

If your name appears without spaces in the booking, this may simply be the result of KLM’s reservation system and is not necessarily a typo.

KLM Name Change Fee

KLM’s published information provides different fees depending on when and how the correction is requested.

Name Correction Requested in Advance

If you request a name correction before reaching the airport, KLM states that the correction is free of charge.

Name Correction at the Airport

If you wait until the airport to request the correction, KLM states that a EUR 15 fee applies.

Travel Agency Bookings

For tickets booked through a travel agency, KLM states that the name correction fee is EUR 30, with the correction possible on the day of departure. You should contact the travel agency directly.

Because service charges and ticket conditions can vary by booking, passengers should confirm the applicable amount for their specific reservation.

How to Correct a Name on a KLM Ticket

If you notice a spelling mistake after booking, it is best to request the correction as soon as possible.

Step 1: Check Your Booking

Review your KLM confirmation and compare the passenger name with your passport or ID card.

Step 2: Identify the Error

Determine whether the difference is an actual typo or simply the way KLM displays names in its reservation system.

Step 3: Contact KLM

If you booked directly with KLM and are flying with KLM, Air France, or Delta Air Lines, contact KLM to request the correction.

Step 4: Partner Airline Flights

If any flight is operated by another partner airline, submit your request at least 72 hours before departure. KLM says it will do its best to assist with the correction.

Step 5: Check the Updated Ticket

After the correction has been processed, verify that the name on the updated ticket matches your passport or ID.

KLM Name Correction for Travel Agency Bookings

If you purchased your KLM ticket through a travel agency or online travel agency, contact the agency directly to request a name correction.

KLM recommends doing this well in advance because processing the request may take some time.

The travel agency may also have its own service charges in addition to any airline-related fees.

KLM Name Correction for Flying Blue Reward Tickets

If your KLM booking is a Flying Blue reward ticket, KLM instructs passengers to contact Flying Blue Customer Service for name-related assistance.

Before contacting support, keep your:

• Booking reference.
• Ticket number.
• Flying Blue details.
• Passport or ID information.

Can You Transfer a KLM Ticket to Another Person?

No. KLM does not allow you to replace the original passenger with another person.

The airline’s conditions of carriage state that the ticket is associated with the passenger whose name appears on the ticket and that tickets generally cannot be transferred.

Therefore, correcting a spelling mistake is different from changing the ticket to somebody else’s name.

What Happens If the Name on My KLM Ticket Is Incorrect?

KLM states that the name on your boarding pass needs to match your passport or ID card. If you notice a spelling error, you should contact KLM as soon as possible to have it corrected.

Do not wait until the last minute if you can avoid it. An airport correction may involve a fee, while an advance correction is free according to KLM’s published name-correction information.

Tips to Avoid KLM Name Correction Problems

• Enter your name exactly as shown on your passport.
• Double-check the spelling before completing your booking.
• Review your confirmation immediately after booking.
• Don’t worry if multiple first names are not all displayed.
• Check your passport’s MRZ if you’re unsure about a maiden-name issue.
• Request a genuine correction as soon as you discover it.
• If your booking includes a partner airline, request the correction at least 72 hours before departure.
• If you booked through a travel agency, contact the agency directly.

Conclusion

The KLM Airlines Name Change Policy allows passengers to correct genuine spelling or typing mistakes while keeping the same traveler on the ticket. KLM states that advance name corrections are free of charge, while corrections requested at the airport may cost EUR 15. Tickets booked through travel agencies have separate procedures and a stated EUR 30 correction fee on the day of departure.

KLM does not allow passengers to transfer their tickets to another person. If you discover a genuine error, contact KLM or your travel agency as early as possible. For itineraries involving another partner airline, KLM recommends making the request at least 72 hours before departure.

Frequently Asked Questions