When it comes to air travel, ensuring that your booking details are accurate is crucial. However, life happens, and sometimes you need to modify your reservation. British Airways, a renowned airline, has specific policies in place regarding name changes and flight adjustments. Let’s delve into the details of British Airways name change policy.
British Airways Name Change Policy
British Airways provides you the option to make name corrections adhering to the British Airways name change policy. Whether you want to make small changes like spelling mistakes to make complete name changes legally, everything is made possible at British Airways.
British Airways Name Change Policy Highlights
If you are unaware of the British Airways name change policy, here you will get to know all of them in a single place. Go through all of these policies and ensure your name is changed on time.
- Generally, name changes are not permitted on British Airways flights.
- You are allowed to make changes to your name for up to 3 letters in the name.
- For changing your name after marriage/divorce you can directly call the customer support number mentioned below.
- Your name must match the travel documents exactly without any single spelling error.
- Your flight must be booked via BA and must have a 236 ticketed booking number.
- You must opt for name changes before 30 days if your booking is made 30 days or more.
- If you have booked your ticket within 30 days of departure, you must opt for name changes at the time of the booking.
- For group tickets, name changes are permitted at least 48 hours before the departure.
Types of Name Change Policy at British Airways
There are always different kinds of name changes you can opt for. If you have gone through the British Airways name correction policies, you will understand the importance of these types:
- Standard Name Corrections: These allow changes of up to three letters in a name. For example, fixing a minor spelling error.
- Passport/Marriage Name Changes: If your marital status has changed, you can update your name to match your passport.
- Exceptional Circumstances: In rare cases, British Airways may consider other name change requests. These are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
How to Change Your Name on a British Airways Ticket?
Whether you’ve made a typo, legally changed your name, or need to transfer your ticket, this guide will walk you through the steps to be followed under each method to make a name change on British Airways:
Name Change via Phone Call
If you prefer personalized assistance, contacting British Airways customer support is a reliable option. They can guide you through the process and address any specific concerns.
- Dial the appropriate customer service number mentioned below based on your location.
- Explain that you need to make a name change.
- Share your booking reference and personal details.
- Explain the reason for the name change (e.g., marriage, typo).
- For significant changes (e.g., complete name change), provide relevant evidence (e.g., marriage certificate, legal documents).
- British Airways charges an administration fee (e.g., £45 or $60) for name corrections.
Name Change via Airport
If you’re already at the airport, you can still rectify your name. Visit the British Airways ticket counter or service desk for assistance.
- Reach the airport well in advance of your flight departure.
- Locate the British Airways check-in area.
- Approach a British Airways representative at the ticket counter or service desk.
- Explain your situation and the need for a name change.
- If applicable, present supporting documents (e.g., marriage certificate, legal proof).
- The agent will verify the details.
- Pay the administration fee (similar to the online and customer support methods).
- Once the name change is processed, you’ll receive an updated boarding pass.
Name Change Online
Making a name change online is convenient and efficient. British Airways allows customers to correct minor errors in their names (up to 3 characters) without much hassle. However, significant changes may require additional documentation.
- Go to the British Airways official website.
- Access the “Manage My Booking” section.
- Enter your booking reference (also known as the PNR) and your last name.
- Look for the option related to name corrections or changes.
- Follow the prompts to edit your name.
- Correct any spelling errors or missing information.
- Confirm the changes.
- Double-check the updated name.
- Save the changes to your booking.
Transfer the Ticket to Another Person
British Airways has some strict policies as well which do not allow you to transfer your ticket to another traveller. You can make name corrections but you can not completely change your name to someone else.
British Airways Name Change Fees
- For changing up to 3 letters in your name via call center, the British Airways name change fee incurred is UK/IE call center- £45/€50 & North America call center- $60.
- For changing your name after marriage/divorce via call center, the fee incurred is £45.
How to Minimize British Airways Cost To Change Name On Ticket?
To minimize the cost of changing a name on a British Airways ticket, consider the following steps:
Verify Details During Booking:
- Double-check all passenger details, including names, during the booking process. Ensuring accuracy from the outset can prevent the need for corrections later.
Minor Name Corrections:
- British Airways allows up to three letters of correction in a name. If you spot a minor spelling error, take advantage of this allowance without incurring additional fees.
Marriage or Divorce Name Changes:
- If your marital status has changed, and you need your name to match your passport, contact the British Airways call center.
- Provide supporting evidence (such as marriage or divorce certificates) to facilitate the change.
- The administration fee for this type of name change is £45.
Avoid Full Name Changes:
- Remember that complete name changes are generally not permitted.
- Tickets are non-transferable, meaning you cannot replace one passenger with another directly.
- Instead, create a new booking in the name of the new traveler to avoid hefty fees.
Summary:
British Airways maintains a strict policy regarding name changes. While minor corrections are possible, significant alterations require adherence to specific guidelines. Always verify your booking details during the reservation process to avoid unnecessary fees. Remember that tickets are non-transferable, so if you need to change the traveler’s name, be prepared for the associated costs.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1) Can I change the name on my British Airways ticket?
Generally, name changes are not permitted. However, minor corrections (up to three letters) are allowed in exceptional circumstances.
2 ) How do I correct a minor spelling error in my name?
Make it online or contact the British Airways call center and follow the steps mentioned above.
3) Can I change my name after marriage or divorce?
Yes, you can change your name after marriage or divorce, although you will have to provide the supporting documents.
4) What if I need a significant name change?
Complete name changes are generally not allowed. To do so, you will have to book a new itinerary instead.
5) Are tickets transferable to another person?
No, tickets on British Airways are non-transferable. You will have to book a new booking for a different traveler.
6) What is the cost of name correction for group booking?
For group bookings a service charge of £50.00 per change is incurred on the itinerary apart from the administrative charges that apply.