When planning a trip, it is easy to overlook minor details while booking, especially when entering passenger information. Unfortunately, even a minor spelling error in your name can cause issues at check-in or boarding. Because the name on your ticket must exactly match your name on your passport or government-issued ID, understanding the American Airlines name change policy is essential. While you are correcting a typo or updating your name after marriage, American Airlines offers several options to help you fix errors quickly and smoothly.
American Airlines permits you to correct or update your name under specific circumstances. The primary condition is that the correction must reflect the same traveler’s identity; the airline does not allow transferring a ticket to another person.
The American Airlines name change policy covers:
The goal is simple: ensure your ticketed name matches your official ID exactly for a smooth travel experience.
Depending on the kind of mistake, American Airlines allows different levels of corrections. Below are the most common changes permitted under their policy.
This includes simple typing errors that do not alter your identity. These corrections usually involve modifying 1–3 characters and do not require legal documents.
If your first name and last name were entered in the wrong order, American Airlines allows you to correct them without rebooking.
This is a common error among international travelers, especially when naming conventions differ.
If your passport or ID includes a middle name or initial that was not included at booking, American Airlines can update it.
You may request a name update if your legal name has changed due to various reasons. Thus, legal documents must support these updates.
While American Airlines is flexible with corrections, certain changes are not permissible:
In such cases, you must cancel the ticket and book a new one, depending on your fare type.
American Airlines offers multiple channels to submit your correction request that you can choose the method that suits your booking.
It is best if you are making last-minute minor corrections. Not all types of corrections can be processed at the airport, so arrive early.
Make sure to carry:
Under the American Airlines name change policy, documentation requirements depend on the type of correction:
For legal name changes, you must provide valid proof. Submit at least one of the following documents, and ensure the updated name matches your government ID exactly:
For more details, visit the official American Airlines website.
According to the American Airlines name change policy, you are liable to pay a name change fee, which depends on the type of correction and the type of fare you purchased.
If the ticket includes segments operated by partner airlines, including British Airways, Qatar Airways, or Alaska Airlines, the final fee may follow that airline’s correction rules. Always check the fare conditions associated with your ticket.
| Type of name change | Name change fee |
| Minor corrections | Free |
| Legal name changes | $25 to $150 |
American Airlines recommends making corrections as soon as you notice the error. Early name change requests:
Last-minute requests may not always be possible, especially for international flights.
American Airlines does not allow changing the entire passenger name to a different traveler. You must cancel and rebook.
Minor corrections are often free, while legal name updates may cost between $25 and $150, depending on fare rules.
You may need to provide a marriage certificate, divorce papers, court documents, or government-issued ID with the updated name.
You can correct but the correction must be requested from the travel agency where the booking was made.
American Airlines allows corrections or additions to middle names as long as the traveler’s identity remains the same.
Name change policies are subject to change by American Airlines. The information provided is for guidance only. Always verify the latest policy directly with American Airlines or the Department of Transportation (DOT). CheapFlyFinder is not affiliated with American Airlines.
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