Aerolineas Argentinas, Argentina’s flag carrier, has a name change policy that permits corrections for minor errors but generally restricts full name changes or ticket transfers. The policy ensures the name on the ticket matches the passenger’s government-issued ID, aligning with aviation security standards. Below is a summary of the policy based on available information.
General Rule
Tickets are non-transferable, and full name changes to transfer a ticket to another person are not permitted. Corrections for minor typographical errors or legal name changes are allowed, subject to fees, documentation, and fare rules. Changes must be requested before check-in begins.
Permitted Name Corrections
- Minor Typos: Corrections for spelling errors in the first, middle, or last name, typically up to three characters (e.g., correcting “Jon” to “John”).
- Legal Name Changes: Updates due to marriage, divorce, or other legal reasons, supported by official documents (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
- Name Order Errors: Fixing swapped first and last names.
- Middle Name Issues: Adding or correcting a middle name, though minor discrepancies may not always require correction if the first and last names match the ID.
Fees
A name change fee applies, varying by fare type, route, and timing. Corrections within a short period after booking may be free under the airline’s flexible booking policy. If the corrected ticket falls into a higher fare class, a fare difference may apply. Fees are non-refundable, even if the request is denied. Contact Aerolineas Argentinas for specific fee details, as they depend on the ticket conditions.
Process
- Online Changes: For tickets booked directly through Aerolineas Argentinas’ website or app, access the “Manage Booking” section. Enter the reservation code and passenger’s last name to request a correction.
- Customer Service: Contact Aerolineas Argentinas’ call center or visit an airport ticket counter. Provide the booking reference, passport, and supporting documents (e.g., marriage certificate for legal name changes).
- Third-Party Bookings: If booked through a travel agency or third-party platform (e.g., Expedia), changes must be requested through the original booking source, which may involve additional fees or delays.
- Documentation: Minor corrections require a government-issued ID. Legal name changes need official documents like a marriage certificate or court order.
- Booking Reference Handling: The original ticket may be canceled and reissued with the corrected name, subject to availability of the same itinerary and fare class.
Restrictions
- No Ticket Transfers: Tickets cannot be transferred to another person. A new ticket must be purchased for a different traveler.
- Codeshare or Partner Flights: Name changes may not be permitted for flights operated by partner airlines, even if booked through Aerolineas Argentinas.
- Post-Check-in Changes: Corrections are not allowed after check-in has started.
- Fare Type Restrictions: Promotional or basic economy fares may have stricter rules, and some may not allow name changes if the flight is fully booked.
- Single Correction Limit: Only one name correction is typically allowed per ticket.
- Other Modifications: Changes to date of birth or gender cannot be made alongside a name correction.
Free Correction Period
Corrections made within a short period after booking are generally free, provided the ticket was purchased directly through Aerolineas Argentinas’ official channels and the request is made promptly. This applies to minor typos and is subject to fare rules.
How to Request a Name Change
- Online: Use the “Manage Booking” section on Aerolineas Argentinas’ website or app for direct bookings. Enter the reservation code and follow prompts to edit the name.
- Phone: Contact the call center with the booking reference and necessary documents ready. Be prepared for potential wait times or dropped calls, as reported by some passengers.
- Airport Ticket Counter: Visit an Aerolineas Argentinas ticket counter at the airport, ideally well before departure.
- Social Media: Reach out via Aerolineas Argentinas’ social media channels for assistance, which may offer quicker responses.
- Third-Party Bookings: Contact the travel agency or platform where the ticket was booked to initiate the correction process.
Practical Notes
- Verification: Always provide a government-issued ID or legal documents to support the correction request.
- Timing: Request changes as early as possible to avoid complications, especially for international flights where name mismatches can lead to denied boarding.
- Middle Name Concerns: Minor middle name discrepancies are often overlooked at check-in if the first and last names match, but it’s best to confirm with Aerolineas Argentinas to avoid issues.
- Third-Party Bookings: Changes for tickets booked through third parties can be more complex, as Aerolineas Argentinas may require the agency to handle the request, potentially causing delays.
- Customer Service Challenges: Some passengers report difficulties reaching customer service, with long wait times or dropped calls. Persistence or using alternative channels like social media may help.
