Wrong name on flight ticket? Know correction rules, charges and refund norms

A mismatch between the name on a flight ticket and the passenger’s identification documents can lead to serious trouble at the airport — including being denied boarding.

The issue recently came into focus after a passenger travelling from Newark to Delhi was denied boarding on his return flight over an alleged discrepancy in his name. His family had to purchase another ticket at the airline counter for Rs 71,241.

The passenger later sought a refund of the additional fare. According to reports, the airline and travel company had agreed to refund the amount, but the passenger’s daughter alleged that the money was not paid despite repeated follow-ups. A Bengaluru consumer commission subsequently directed the airline and travel company to jointly pay Rs 78,920.

The case has once again brought attention to what passengers should check before travelling.

What happens if your name does not match?

Airlines generally require the name on a booking to match the passenger’s identification document. A mismatch can result in the traveller being denied boarding.

For domestic flights, the name on the ticket should correspond with the name on Aadhaar or another accepted identity document.

For international travel, passengers should ensure that the booking carries their complete name as it appears on their passport, including the first name, middle name where applicable and surname.

Can you correct a spelling mistake?

Minor errors can generally be corrected by contacting the airline or booking agent as soon as possible. These may include typos of up to three characters, changes to titles or instances where the first and last names have been entered in the wrong order.

Adding a middle name or changing a maiden name to a married name may attract additional charges.

Many airlines also allow certain name corrections without a fee when reported within 24 hours of booking. However, correction requests may not be accepted within 24 hours of departure, and only one correction is generally permitted per passenger.

What are the refund rules?

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) revised its air-ticket cancellation and refund norms in February this year.

Under the revised rules, passengers can cancel or change tickets without an additional charge within 48 hours of booking, subject to applicable conditions.

Airlines are also required to complete the refund process within 14 working days.