Mistakes happen, especially when booking flight tickets. Sometimes you misspell your name, enter the wrong middle name, or need to correct the name to match your government ID. The question many travelers ask is: “Can I change the name on an Alaska Airlines ticket?”
The good news is yes, you can change or correct a name on an Alaska Airlines ticket, but there are rules, limits, and important conditions to understand before you make any changes.
This detailed guide will walk you through what type of name changes are allowed, how to request them, name correction fees, and the exact steps to follow.
Why Is Name Accuracy Important on Alaska Airlines?
Alaska Airlines, like all U.S. airlines, requires that the passenger’s name on the ticket must exactly match the name on their government-issued ID or passport.
Even small spelling errors can cause problems during security checks.
Some common reasons for needing a name change or correction include:
- Spelling error in first or last name
- Missing middle name
- Legal name change after marriage or divorce
- Ticket booked for the wrong person
- Incorrect order of first and last name
Understanding Alaska’s name-change rules helps avoid stress at the airport.
Types of Name Changes Allowed on Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines allows name corrections but does not always allow full name changes unless specific requirements are met.
Here are the categories:
1. Minor Name Corrections (Allowed)
These are small adjustments that fix clerical errors. Alaska Airlines generally allows:
- Fixing 1–3 letter spelling errors
- Correcting reversed first and last name
- Adding or removing a middle name
- Changing nickname to full name (e.g., “Mike” to “Michael”)
- Removing extra characters or typing mistakes
These corrections are usually easy to process and may not require a fee.
2. Major Name Changes (Conditionally Allowed)
These are bigger changes, usually backed by legal documents.
Allowed with proof:
- Marriage name change
- Divorce name change
- Legal name change
- Updating surname after official court order
Alaska Airlines requires documentation such as a:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Court order
3. Changing the Passenger (Not Allowed)
One thing Alaska Airlines does not allow is transferring the ticket to a different person.
If you want someone else to travel in your place:
i.) You cannot simply change the name
ii.) You must cancel or modify the booking
iii.) Rebook a new ticket for the new traveler
This is because airline tickets are non-transferable for security reasons.
How to Change or Correct a Name on Alaska Airlines
Here are the steps depending on the type of correction you need.
1. Online Name Correction (Simple Spelling Fixes)
Alaska Airlines allows basic corrections through the website.
Steps:
- Visit AlaskaAir.com
- Select Manage Trip
- Enter your confirmation code and last name
- Look for the option “Edit passenger information”
- Make the correction
- Save changes
This works only for small spelling corrections.
2. Contact Alaska Airlines Customer Support
For bigger changes, calling customer service is necessary.
Phone Support:
- Alaska Airlines Reservations: 1-800-252-7522
Provide the details and explain the reason for the name correction.
Have your legal documents ready if needed.
3. Visit the Alaska Airlines Ticket Counter at the Airport
If you're close to the travel date or facing trouble online, you can request help in person.
Bring:
- Your government ID
- Booking confirmation
- Legal documents (if required)
Agents can process corrections quickly, especially for urgent travel plans.
Documents Required for Major Name Changes
For significant name changes, Alaska Airlines may ask for:
- Government-issued ID
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Court order for legal name change
Submit copies during verification if requested.
Does Alaska Airlines Charge a Name Change Fee?
Alaska Airlines may or may not charge a fee depending on the situation.
Free or Low-Cost Corrections:
- Minor spelling mistakes
- Fixing name order
- Adding a middle name
- Removing a typo
These are often free or carry a very small service fee.
Possible Fees for Major Name Changes:
- Changes requiring documentation
- Legal name updates
- Corrections involving reissuing the ticket
Fees can vary based on:
- Fare type
- Route
- Whether the ticket needs rebooking
If the fare price has increased since the original booking, you may pay the fare difference.
Important Rules to Remember
The name on your ticket must match your government ID
Even a small mismatch can cause TSA issues.
Saver Fares have restrictions
Some Saver (basic economy) tickets may not allow name changes or may require rebooking.
No ticket transfers
You cannot change the ticket to someone else's name.
Changes must be completed before check-in
Once a boarding pass is issued, corrections become more difficult.
Tips to Avoid Name Change Problems
- Always double-check the spelling before finalizing booking
- Use the exact same name printed on your ID
- Add middle names if your ID includes them
- For group bookings, verify all passenger names carefully
- Update your frequent flyer profile to avoid repeated mistakes
Final Thoughts
So, can you change the name on an Alaska Airlines ticket?
Yes — but only within certain limits.
Alaska Airlines allows:
- Minor spelling corrections
- Adjustments to first, middle, or last names
- Legal name changes with proper documents
But it does not allow:
- Changing the passenger entirely
- Transferring the ticket to another person
If you made a simple mistake, don’t worry—most corrections are quick, sometimes free, and can be done online. For major changes, customer support or the airport desk can help.
Ensuring your name is accurate before travel will save time, stress, and potential security issues.