American Airlines Name Change Guide
Travel plans can be stressful, and realizing there's a mistake in your name on your American Airlines ticket can add to the chaos. But don't worry! In this guide, we'll break down the American Airlines name change policy, explain how you can fix it, and answer common questions.
Let's dive in!
American Airlines Name Change Policy
American Airlines allows passengers to correct or change names on tickets, but the rules depend on the type of itinerary.
1. Minor Name Corrections
- Applies to tickets with only American Airlines and American Eagle flights.
- Changes can be made within the same reservation that has the same Passenger Name Record (PNR).
- DOB (Date of Birth) and gender cannot be altered.
- No additional fees apply.
Examples of Minor Corrections:
- Correcting a typo (e.g., Thomason to Thompson).
- Fixing inverted names (Allen/Thomas to Thomas/Allen).
- Adding or removing middle names or initials.
2. Major Name Corrections
- Applies to tickets with codeshare flights (AA/OneWorld)* or other airline segments.
- A new reservation (PNR) is required.
- A fee may apply.
Examples of Major Corrections:
- Legal name changes (e.g., due to marriage or adoption).
- Significant first or last name changes.
How to Change Your Name on American Airlines?
Step 1: Identify the Type of Correction
Is it a Minor or Major correction? Refer to the rules mentioned above.
Step 2: Contact American Airlines Support
- For Minor Corrections: Reach out to customer service or your booking agent.
- For Major Corrections: You might need assistance from the Sales Support Team.
If you live in the US, you can contact customer service at 1-800-433-7300. For other contact numbers, look at American Airlines' official contact page.
You can also go to the American Airlines website and click the chat bubble in the lower right side to chat with a representative.
Use American Airlines online chat to take care of minor name changes.
Step 3: Provide Necessary Documentation
Make sure you have the following ready:
- Government-issued ID
- Booking details
- Proof of legal name change (if applicable)
Step 4: Reissue the Ticket
- Minor Corrections: The same PNR will be used.
- Major Corrections: A new PNR will be created.
Step 5: Verify Details
After the change, double-check your updated ticket details.
Can I Change a Name on an American Airlines Ticket?
Yes, but with limitations:
- Major changes (e.g., swapping first and last names) require creating a new reservation.
- No name transfers: Tickets cannot be transferred to a different person.
How to Change My Name on My American Airlines Account?
If your name has changed legally or you noticed a mistake in your American Airlines account, you can fill out a simple online form and submit it to change your name.
- Log in to your AAdvantage account.
- Navigate to Account Settings.
- Click on Information / password under the Profile / settings tab.
- Click on update name / birthday / gender and update your name to match your legal documents.
- Submit your changes
If you're unable to make updates online, contact American Airlines Customer Support.
Online option to change key information like your name.
FAQs about American Airlines Name Change
1. Can I correct a typo on my ticket?
Yes, minor corrections for typos can be made without additional fees.
2. What if I legally changed my name?
You'll need documentation (e.g., marriage certificate) for a major correction.
3. Can I transfer my ticket to someone else?
No, American Airlines does not allow ticket transfers.
4. Is there a fee for a name change?
- Minor corrections: No fee.
- Major corrections: Likely.
5. How close to departure can I make a name correction?
Name changes are not allowed within 24 hours of departure.
6. What happens if I make an error in DOB or gender?
You have to contact customer service.
Final Thoughts
Fixing a name error on your American Airlines ticket isn't as stressful as it seems if you follow the right steps. Whether it's a small typo or a legal name change, knowing the difference between Minor and Major corrections can save you time and money.
When in doubt, reach out to American Airlines customer support—they're there to help!