Why Fixing a Name Matters
Airline policy and airport security require that the name on your ticket matches exactly with your travel ID — whether it’s a passport or driver’s license. Even a single misspelled letter can cause denial at the boarding gate or airport security. Delta understands human error, so minor corrections are permitted. But full name changes to another person are not allowed.
Minor Name Corrections
Delta Air Lines allows small alterations to names if they meet these conditions:
- The correction does not change the passenger’s identity
- Error is a single typo, missing letter, or swapped names—not an entirely different name
- Changes can include adding or removing a middle initial or reversing first and middle names
- Apostrophes, hyphens, or capitalizations can be updated to match your ID
If the correction is minor, you may be able to fix it online through Delta’s website or by calling customer service. In many cases these changes are free — especially when made soon after booking.
Name Corrections Vs Name Transfers
Allowed: Minor spelling fixes or legal name updates (e.g., correcting “Jonh” to “John” or “Marie Mary” to match ID).
Not Allowed: Full transfer to another passenger (e.g., a ticket currently under “John Smith” cannot be reassigned to “Jane Doe”).
If a name change is attempted that alters the identity completely, Delta considers it misuse, and the traveler will need to cancel the ticket or book a new one entirely.
Legal Name Changes
If you had a legal name change due to marriage, divorce, court order, or adoption, Delta allows updates with documentation such as:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree including a name change
- Court issued name change order
- Updated passport or government ID
These updates may require ticket reissue and possible minor fees, but they are permitted as long as you confirm the passenger identity through proof.
Timing: When to Act
- Within 24 hours of booking: Corrections are easiest to make and usually free. Delta often allows changes as long as your flight is more than 7 days out.
- >24 hours before departure: Minor mistakes can still be fixed, though fees might apply depending on fare class.
- Within 72 hours of travel: Delta may charge service fees or require fare difference payment to process the change.
- At the airport or late day of travel: Name corrections are difficult and costly. It’s safer to act well before travel.
Fare Class Rules
- Basic Economy: Almost no flexibility. Basic fares are typically non-changeable, and minor name corrections may not be allowed.
- Main Cabin & Comfort Plus: Common fare classes that allow minor corrections under sensible circumstances.
- Delta One and Premium Cabin fares: Offer the greatest flexibility and often waive correction fees.
- Correction rules vary by fare, so double-check your ticket type if you suspect an error.
Booking Insider or Partner Issues
- If booked through a travel agent or third-party site (like Expedia or Orbitz), corrections must go through them.
- Delta cannot override changes unless the ticket is in their own system.
- Partner flights or codeshared segments may have additional name rules, especially for international routes.
How to Correct a Name
- Review the spelling on your ticket and confirm it against your ID.
- Log in to Manage Trips at Delta.com if minor corrections are allowed online.
- If unavailable online, call Delta reservation, have your confirmation number and intended correct spelling ready.
- Provide supporting ID if required (for legal corrections).
- Ensure the updated boarding pass is correct before you arrive at the airport.
Fees and Penalties
- Minor corrections made early are often free — Delta allows small fixes at no charge.
- Changing middle initials or minor spacing errors may cost nothing.
- If your correction requires ticket reissue or fare adjustment, fees could be $75–$200 depending on route and timing.
- Fare differences may apply if your correction creates a higher-priced ticket situation.
Examples You Might See
- “Jonh Doe” → “John Doe”: Correctable and likely free if noted early.
- Swapped names (“Mary John Doe” vs. “John Mary Doe”): Delta allows this if made before check-in.
- Legal name change (“Doe” becomes “Smith”): You submit documentation and ticket is reissued.
- Ticket under “John Doe” for “Jane Doe”: Not allowed; must cancel or rebook.
International vs Domestic Flight Implications
- Domestic flights: Corrections are simpler and may be completed quickly online or over the phone.
- International flights: Name must match passport perfectly. Typos like missing hyphens or initials can still cause issues at immigration. Act early to ensure partner airlines see the corrected name.
What Happens if You Wait Too Long?
- Corrections may not be accepted last-minute.
- Gate or check-in staff may deny boarding if names don’t match ID exactly.
- You may be asked to cancel and rebook, losing value or fare difference.
- Always correct errors as soon as you notice them—not at the airport.
Elite Member Considerations
SkyMiles Medallion members may receive special benefits:
- Waived fees for minor name corrections
- Access to dedicated phone line for faster help
- More flexibility on timing and rule exceptions
If you have status, mention it when calling.
Summary Table
| Error Type | Allowed? | Fee Risk | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple typo | Yes | Usually none | If done early |
| Missing middle name | Yes | Usually none | Middle name is optional |
| Legal name change | Yes | Minimal processing fee | Requires certified documents |
| Ticket transfer to another person | No | Not permitted | Must cancel and rebook |
| Booked via third-party | Correction only via that agent | Agent fee possible | Delta won’t change it directly |
Final Thoughts
Delta Air Lines does allow minor name corrections, and legal updates are permitted with proper documentation. However, full ticket transfers to another person are not allowed. Timing matters — corrections made early are easier and cheaper, especially before your ticket is issued or online check-in begins. If you spot a name mistake, act as soon as possible through the website or customer service. Need help reviewing your fare rules or drafting a correction request? Just let me know — I’m happy to assist optimizing your next step.