Here’s Fee to Update the Passenger Name on a Spirit Airlines Ticket
It’s a tricky situation: you book a flight and later notice your name is spelled incorrectly. Will Spirit Airlines charge you extra to fix it? That depends on the type of correction, timing, and fare class. This guide explains what changes Spirit allows, when you can request them, and what charges, if any, apply.
Why Name Accuracy Always Matters
- Airline tickets must exactly match your government-issued ID or passport.
- A single wrong letter or misplaced initial can lead to TSA delays or denied boarding.
- Accurate names protect your loyalty account, taxes, and travel passes.
- Fixing name errors early avoids hassles at check‑in and immigration.
Spirit Policy: Name Fixes vs Ticket Transfers
Spirit clearly distinguishes between two things:
- Name correction: Fixing a minor typo or updating the name to match your ID—acceptable and typically allowed.
- Ticket transfer: Giving your fare to another person—not allowed under Spirit rules.
You can correct your own name, but you cannot change the passenger name to someone else’s.
Types of Corrections Spirit Allows
These edits are often approved:
- Minor typos: Fixing a few mistyped characters (e.g. Davd to David)
- Swapped first and middle names
- Missing or incorrect middle initial
- Hyphens or apostrophes to match ID
- Capitalization or spacing differences
These corrections do not change your identity and do not require ticket reissuing.
Name Corrections Spirit Does Not Support
- Trying to transfer the ticket to a different person (like a friend or family).
- Major changes that alter your identity (completely different first or last name).
- Editing after travel begins — once the outbound segment is used, ticket changes may be blocked.
Only you, the original traveler, may correct your name—ticket must always reflect your own identity.
Legal Name Changes Are Permissible
If your name has legally changed (from marriage, divorce, or court order), Spirit can update your ticket name if you provide proof:
- Marriage certificate
- Court-issued name change order
- Updated passport or valid ID
A ticket reissue may be required and a small service fee or fare difference might apply—depending on your fare class and timing.
When Corrections Are Free or Chargeable
| When | Minor Correction Allowed? | Fee Likely? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Within 24h of booking | Yes | No | Risk window for all fares |
| >72h before departure | Yes | Rarely | Minor edits usually free |
| Within 72h of departure | Possibly | Possible small fee | Closer to departure = fee risk |
| At airport or same day | Maybe | More likely | Depend on agent availability |
| Legal name change | Yes | Possible fee | Docs required |
| Ticket transfer | No | Not allowed | Must rebook under new name |
Bare Fare (Spirit’s lowest fare) is most restrictive—name changes might be denied outside the 24h window. Plus or Flex fares offer more flexibility and fewer potential fees.
How to Correct Your Name with Spirit
Online (if available)
- Visit spirit.com or use their app.
- Navigate to My Trips and enter booking number and surname.
- If editable, click update name and follow prompts.
- Save the updated itinerary once done.
By Phone
- Call Spirit Reservations with your booking number.
- Clearly explain the mistake and the correct spelling.
- Provide documents if legal name change is required.
- Confirm the update has been applied.
At the Airport
- Arrive early and visit the airline service desk.
- An agent may help with minor name corrections if there is time.
- Expect possible higher charges or risk of denial if travel is imminent.
What Fees to Expect
- No charge if you correct the name during the 24h risk-free period.
- Minor edits are usually free before the 72h window, depending on fare.
- Within 72 hours, a small service fee may be assessed—especially on Basic fares.
- Legal name changes may require reissuing the ticket and fare differences.
- Airport edits typically incur higher costs and may not be guaranteed.
Booking Channel Impacts
If you booked with Spirit directly, you have more control via their website or phone line. If your ticket was booked by a travel site or agent, you may need to contact them—not Spirit—to request name changes. Agents may add their own service fees.
International and Partner Flight Notes
If your trip includes flights operated by partner airlines or is international:
- Name corrections may need to be replicated in partner systems.
- Passport accuracy is strictly enforced at international borders.
- Early correction ensures all segments reflect your correct name.
Real-World Correction Examples
| Scenario | Outcome |
|---|---|
| “Davd” corrected to “David” within hours | No fee |
| Missing middle initial added to match passport | No fee |
| Married name “Smith” corrected to “Johnson” | Legal docs provided, small fee |
| Bare Fare typo corrected close to travel date | Possibly denied or fee applied |
| Ticket intended for another passenger | Transfer denied—must rebook |
Tips to Prevent Name Errors
- Input your exact legal name as on ID or passport during booking
- Avoid using nicknames
- Double-check confirmation email right after booking
- Fix any spelling mistakes within hours
- Save your itinerary or ticket after a successful correction
- Use official Spirit channels for changes—don’t rely on third-party contact info
Why Spirit Prevents Transfers
Spirit’s policy restricts transfers for these reasons:
- TSA identity verification requires matching ticket and ID
- Prevents resale and maintain fare integrity
- Protects loyalty program and travel records
- Avoids misuse or fraud by ensuring individual ticket ownership
Transfers undermine these safeguards and are disallowed.
Summary
Spirit Airlines permits minor name corrections for the same traveler—especially during the first 24 hours and before 72 hours of departure. There should be no fee if the edit is made early. Ticket transfers are not allowed under any circumstance. Legal name changes are accepted with documentation, but may involve a small reissue fee or fare difference. Booking directly and acting fast increases your chance of resolving name errors smoothly. Always ensure your ticketed name matches your ID exactly to avoid onboarding issues.
Need help checking if your specific typo qualifies for free correction or evaluating any possible charges? I’m happy to assist.