Overview
United Airlines allows minor name corrections on tickets for spelling errors or legal name changes but does not permit full name changes to transfer tickets to another person, except in specific cases under corporate agreements. The policy ensures the name on the ticket matches the traveler’s passport or government-issued ID for security and compliance purposes, as required by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Key Policy Details
- Minor name corrections, such as fixing typos or adjusting nicknames to full names (e.g., Charli to Charlie), are permitted, typically up to a few characters, and are free if requested within a short period after booking, usually a day, for tickets purchased directly through United Airlines.
- Corrections for legal name changes, such as those due to marriage, divorce, or adoption, are allowed with supporting documents like a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. These are typically free if within the initial grace period.
- Full name changes to transfer a ticket to another person are generally not permitted. However, for tickets issued under certain corporate agreements, a name change may be allowed with a fee per traveler, plus any fare difference and applicable change penalties. Residual ticket value is forfeited in such cases. The original booking must otherwise be canceled and a new ticket purchased, subject to availability and fare conditions.
- Name corrections are only permitted for United Airlines-operated flights (ticket numbers starting with 016) and not for codeshare flights or flights operated by partner airlines unless specified in the booking agreement.
- Bookings made through travel agents or third-party platforms must have name corrections processed through the original booking provider, not directly with United Airlines.
- The name on the ticket must exactly match the traveler’s passport or ID to avoid boarding issues. For passengers with a single name, “FNU” (First Name Unknown) may be used in the first name field. Middle names are optional but must match the ID if included.
- Name corrections are not permitted after check-in, once the journey has commenced, or for certain promotional or non-refundable fares.
How to Make Name Corrections
Name corrections can be made through the following methods:
- Online: Visit the United Airlines website, access the Manage Reservations section, enter the booking reference and last name, select the option to edit passenger details, make the correction, upload required documents if needed, and submit. A confirmation email with the updated ticket will be sent.
- Customer Service: Contact United Airlines customer support via phone or live chat, provide the booking reference and passenger details, request the correction, and submit necessary documents, such as a passport or ID. Fees may apply, and a confirmation email will be sent upon completion.
- In-Person: Visit a United Airlines ticket counter or airport kiosk at least a day before departure, provide the booking reference and identification documents, and request the correction. Fees may apply, and a confirmation email will be sent.
- Travel Agency: For bookings made through a travel agency, contact the agency directly to request the correction, provide required documents, and pay any applicable fees. The agency will coordinate with United Airlines.
Important Notes
- Name corrections must be requested before check-in, ideally as soon as the error is noticed, as changes are not permitted after check-in or within a few hours of departure.
- Fees for name corrections vary by fare type, route, and timing. Minor corrections within the initial grace period are typically free, but other corrections or name changes under corporate agreements may incur a fee, plus any fare difference.
- Passengers must ensure the name matches their passport or ID exactly to comply with security regulations, particularly for international flights to destinations like London, Tokyo, or Sydney.
- For legal name changes, original or certified copies of supporting documents must be provided for verification.
- Passengers with bookings through third-party platforms should contact their booking agent promptly, as United Airlines may not process corrections directly for such reservations.
- Minor typos may not always prevent boarding if the name is recognizable, but passengers should correct errors in advance to avoid potential issues at check-in or immigration.
