Correct a misspelled name on WestJet ticket
When you book a flight, one of the most important details to get right is the passenger name. Airlines, including WestJet, require that the name on your ticket matches the name on your government issued identification exactly. Even a minor typo can cause issues during check in, security screening, or boarding. Many travelers realize after booking that they have entered their name incorrectly and start to worry about what to do next. The good news is that WestJet allows passengers to correct misspelled names under certain conditions.
This article provides a detailed explanation of WestJets name correction policy, the steps you can take to fix errors, whether fees apply, and tips to avoid problems in the future.
Why name accuracy matters
The name on your airline ticket must match the name on your passport or other government issued ID. This is not simply a formality but a requirement enforced across the global aviation industry. Airlines are obligated to follow strict security and identification standards to ensure that every passenger boarding a flight has a verified and accurate ticket.
Even a small discrepancy such as an extra letter, a missing character, or incorrect arrangement of first and last names can lead to complications. At the airport, airline staff compare your boarding pass to your identification. If the two do not match, you may be denied boarding until the issue is corrected. This is why passengers are encouraged to carefully review their booking confirmation immediately after purchase.
WestJets policy on correcting names
WestJet understands that passengers may make genuine mistakes when entering their name during booking. Their policy distinguishes between small corrections and full name changes.
- Minor spelling corrections
These involve fixing typos or small mistakes such as incorrect letters, reversed letters, missing characters, or adjusting the placement of hyphens and spaces. - Legal name changes
If your name has legally changed after booking, for example due to marriage, divorce, or a court order, WestJet allows corrections when supported with proper documentation. - Full name changes or transfers
WestJet does not allow you to change the ticketed name completely to another person. Tickets are non transferable, meaning you cannot give your seat to someone else by altering the name.
Does WestJet charge a fee
Whether or not you are charged depends on the type of correction.
- Simple typos and minor errors
WestJet generally allows small corrections free of charge if they are reported promptly. - More significant adjustments
If the correction goes beyond a single letter or involves reissuing the ticket, an administrative fee may apply. - Legal name changes
When supported by official documents, WestJet typically updates the ticket without charging a penalty.
Because fees depend on fare type and timing, passengers are advised to contact WestJet as soon as possible to clarify whether a charge applies.
How to correct a misspelled name on a WestJet ticket
If you realize that your name is misspelled, you should act quickly. Here are the main ways to request a correction.
1. Online through Manage Trips
Log into the WestJet website using your reservation code and last name. For some minor errors, the system may allow direct correction online. If not, you will be directed to contact WestJet directly.
2. By calling WestJet customer support
The most reliable way to resolve a name error is to call the airline. A WestJet representative can review your booking, confirm what type of correction is possible, and inform you if there are any fees. Be ready with your booking number, travel details, and valid identification.
3. Through the travel agency or third party website
If you booked your flight through a travel agency or an online travel site, you may need to request the correction through them. WestJet will usually require the booking agent to handle changes on your behalf.
4. At the airport ticket counter
If you notice the error close to your departure time, you can approach the WestJet service desk at the airport. While it is better to correct errors well in advance, staff may be able to make last minute adjustments if the error is small.
Common mistakes passengers make
Misspelled names can happen for many reasons. Some of the most frequent include:
- Typing errors when booking online
- Incorrectly entering first and last names in the wrong fields
- Forgetting to include a middle name if required for international travel
- Leaving out a hyphen in a double surname
- Adding or missing accent marks or special characters
- Not updating a name after marriage or divorce
Legal name changes
If your name has changed legally after booking your WestJet flight, you can request an update by providing supporting documents such as:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Court issued name change order
In these situations, WestJet generally waives correction fees as long as you provide valid proof. It is recommended to notify WestJet as early as possible before your departure.
International travel and name corrections
Name accuracy becomes even more critical when flying internationally. Immigration and customs authorities in many countries require that the travel documents and boarding passes match exactly. Even a minor error can lead to delays or denial of entry.
If you are flying internationally with WestJet, double check that your name matches your passport exactly, including middle names and suffixes if they are part of your legal identity. If your passport shows John Michael Anderson, but your ticket only says John Anderson, you may encounter issues at border control.
How timing affects your correction request
The timing of when you notice the error plays a role in whether fees apply and how simple it is to fix.
- Within 24 hours of booking
Many airlines, including WestJet, are more flexible about changes within this timeframe. Corrections requested quickly are often free. - Closer to departure
The longer you wait, the more complicated it may be to fix the error. If your flight is only hours away, the correction might require reissuing the ticket. - After check in
If you have already checked in online with the wrong name, you must resolve the issue at the airport.
Practical tips to avoid fees and issues
- Always double check the spelling of your name before finalizing a booking.
- Use the same name format as shown on your government issued ID or passport.
- Avoid using nicknames, initials, or shortened forms unless they exactly match your documents.
- If your last name is hyphenated, enter it as it appears on your ID.
- If you spot an error, contact WestJet immediately instead of waiting.
What happens if you do not fix the name
If you attempt to travel with a misspelled name on your ticket that does not match your identification, you may be denied boarding. In such cases, your ticket could be forfeited, and you might have to purchase a new ticket at full price. Correcting errors in advance saves time, stress, and money.
Group bookings and family tickets
If you are traveling as part of a group or family booking, the process may be slightly different. In many cases, corrections must be processed for each passenger individually. For bookings made through a group travel coordinator or agency, you may need to submit your correction request through them.
Travel insurance considerations
Some travel insurance plans cover the cost of name correction fees if the error was accidental. If you frequently travel, it might be worth reviewing insurance policies that include such coverage.
Step by step summary for correcting a name on WestJet
- Review your ticket confirmation carefully.
- Compare the ticket name with your government issued ID or passport.
- If you notice a mistake, log into WestJets Manage Trips to see if a correction can be made online.
- If not available, call WestJet customer service with your booking code and ID.
- Provide documentation if your correction involves a legal name change.
- Confirm whether a fee applies and complete the correction process.
- Verify that your updated ticket matches your ID before traveling.
Final thoughts
Correcting a misspelled name on a WestJet ticket is possible, but the process depends on the type of error, timing, and ticket rules. Small typos and formatting issues are often corrected at no cost if reported quickly. More extensive errors may require an administrative fee or even ticket reissuance. Full ticket transfers to another person are not permitted.
The best strategy is prevention: double check your name before booking and again after receiving your confirmation. If a mistake does occur, contact WestJet as soon as possible to minimize complications and costs. By understanding WestJets name correction policy and acting promptly, you can ensure a smooth travel experience without unnecessary stress.