Overview
South African Airways (SAA) has a strict name change policy due to the South African Government’s Advanced Passenger Processing (APP) service, which requires the name on the ticket to exactly match the traveler’s passport or government-issued ID. Full name changes or ticket transfers to another person are not permitted, but minor name corrections are allowed under specific conditions.
Key Policy Details
- Minor name corrections, such as fixing spelling errors or adjusting titles, are permitted, typically up to three characters in the full name, to align with the traveler’s passport or valid ID.
- Corrections for legal name changes, such as those due to marriage or divorce, are allowed with supporting documents like a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
- If the name on the ticket does not match the passport or ID exactly, even by one letter or if a shortened name is used, the ticket must be canceled, and a new ticket issued. A name change fee may apply, and the original ticket must be submitted for a refund, less an administrative fee.
- Full name changes to transfer a ticket to another person are not allowed. The original booking must be canceled, and a new ticket purchased, subject to availability and fare conditions.
- Bookings made through travel agents must have name corrections processed through the agent, not directly with SAA.
- Name corrections are not permitted for codeshare flights not operated by SAA or after the journey has commenced.
How to Make Name Corrections
Name corrections can be made through the following methods:
- Online: Visit the South African Airways website, access the My Bookings section, enter the booking reference and last name, select the option to edit passenger details, make the correction, upload required documents if needed, and pay any applicable fees. A confirmation email with the updated ticket will be sent.
- Customer Service: Contact SAA’s customer support, provide the booking reference and passenger details, request the correction, and submit necessary documents. Fees may apply, and a confirmation email will be sent upon completion.
- In-Person: Visit an SAA ticket office or airport counter, provide the booking reference and identification documents, and request the correction. Fees may apply, and a confirmation email will be sent.
Important Notes
- Name corrections must be requested before departure, ideally at least a day before for international flights and a few hours before for domestic flights, to avoid boarding issues.
- Fees for name corrections vary based on fare type and timing. Minor corrections within a short grace period after booking, typically a day, may be free, but significant changes or cancellations may incur an administrative fee.
- Passengers must ensure the name matches their passport or ID exactly, as even minor discrepancies can lead to boarding denial due to the APP system.
- For legal name changes, passengers must present original documents or certified copies for verification.
- During the COVID-19 period, SAA temporarily relaxed its name change policy, allowing free name corrections for a limited time. This waiver may no longer apply, so passengers should confirm current policies with SAA.
