Made a spelling error or had a legal name change after booking your Southwest flight? Our comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the airline’s name change policy, from simple typo corrections to more complex situations, ensuring you can board your flight without any hassle. Southwest Airlines permits minor name corrections but prohibits full ticket transfers to another person.
A name change on an airline ticket is the process of correcting or altering the passenger name on a confirmed booking to match the governmentissued ID they will use at the airport. Southwest Airlines distinguishes between:
Fixing small errors like spelling mistakes (e.g., “Jhon” to “John”) or reversing first/last names. These are generally permitted with documentation.
Completely changing the passenger’s name to another person is strictly prohibited unless due to legal name changes (e.g., marriage, divorce) with proper documentation.
Minor spelling corrections (typically up to 3 characters), adding middle names, or correcting transliteration errors. Legal name changes due to marriage/divorce are permitted with documentation.
Transferring tickets to another person is explicitly prohibited under Southwest Airlines’ conditions of carriage.
Governmentissued photo ID (passport, driver’s license) showing correct spelling. For legal changes: marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree.
Requests must be made at least 10 minutes before departure for online changes.
No change fees for name corrections. Only fare difference applies if the new fare is higher.
Group bookings require direct contact with Southwest Airlines. All fare types are eligible for name changes.
| Airline | Minor Correction Fee | Major Change (If Allowed) |
|---|---|---|
| Southwest Airlines | $0 | Not Permitted |
| American Airlines | $150 | Not Permitted |
| Delta Airlines | $100 | $200 + Fare Difference |
| United Airlines | $75 | Not Permitted |
Real-World Examples:
All fare types on Southwest are changeable, including Wanna Get Away fares.
Changes can be made up to 10 minutes before departure online.
Requests to transfer tickets to another person are automatically denied. Tickets must be changed back to the original passenger if an error is made.
Struggling with Southwest Airlines’ Name Change Process? Our experts at CheapFlyFinder can:
Yes, Southwest Airlines allows corrections of up to 3 characters at no fee, provided you present a valid ID matching the correction.
You can change your name online or contact customer service with your booking confirmation and marriage certificate. No fee applies, only fare difference if applicable.
Southwest has no change fees. You only pay the fare difference if the new flight is more expensive. If cheaper, you receive a travel credit for the difference.
Disclaimer: Name change policies are subject to change by Southwest Airlines. The information provided is for guidance only. Always verify the latest policy directly with Southwest Airlines or the Department of Transportation (DOT). CheapFlyFinder is not affiliated with Southwest Airlines.
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