Name Correction Policy for Finnair
Air travel requires accuracy and attention to detail, especially when it comes to ticket information. One of the most common issues passengers face is realizing their name on the ticket is misspelled or entered incorrectly. This situation can create unnecessary stress because airlines have strict policies regarding ticket names. Finnair, as a major European carrier, follows specific rules when it comes to correcting names on tickets. Understanding these rules ensures smooth travel and avoids last minute complications at the airport.
This article provides an in depth look into Finnair’s name correction policy, explaining what changes are allowed, when corrections can be made, potential fees involved, and the difference between simple corrections and prohibited changes.
Why Name Accuracy is Important
Airline tickets are issued under strict international aviation regulations. The name on the ticket must exactly match the name on the traveler’s government issued identification or passport. Even a minor error like a missing letter or an incorrect spelling could cause issues during check in or at immigration.
Airlines including Finnair enforce these rules because of security concerns and to prevent fraud or ticket misuse. Therefore, passengers are encouraged to double check their booking confirmation immediately after purchase to identify errors early.
Overview of Finnair Name Correction Policy
Finnair does not allow full ticket name changes or transfers. This means you cannot give your ticket to another person if you no longer wish to travel. However, the airline does provide options to fix minor mistakes or update names when legally required.
The policy generally covers two areas:
- Minor spelling corrections – Adjusting small errors such as typos, transposed letters, or missing characters.
- Legal name changes – Updating the name due to marriage, divorce, or official documentation updates.
Minor Spelling Corrections
A common issue is entering the name incorrectly during the booking process. Finnair allows small spelling corrections so that the ticket matches the passenger’s identification. Examples include:
- Correcting a single letter that was typed incorrectly.
- Adjusting swapped letters such as “Jonh” instead of “John.”
- Fixing missing letters or an extra character.
These corrections can usually be handled through Finnair’s customer service or through the travel agency where the ticket was purchased. In many cases, only one correction is permitted per ticket, so it is important to ensure the information is accurate after the change.
Legal Name Changes
Passengers who have officially changed their name after booking can request corrections with valid documentation. Common examples include:
- Marriage certificate reflecting a new last name.
- Divorce decree restoring a previous name.
- Legal name change order issued by authorities.
In such cases, the airline typically requires scanned copies or official documents to verify the change before updating the ticket. Without proper documents, the airline may refuse to make adjustments.
Restrictions on Name Changes
While Finnair does allow corrections, there are strict limits:
- No full transfers – You cannot replace the name on the ticket with a completely different person. Tickets are non transferable.
- Consistency required – The corrected name must still identify the same traveler.
- Advance request – Corrections should be requested as early as possible, ideally before check in opens.
How to Request a Name Correction
If you notice an error on your Finnair ticket, the following steps should be taken:
- Review the booking confirmation – Identify exactly what the error is.
- Contact Finnair customer service – Provide booking reference and details of the correction needed.
- Submit documentation if required – For legal name changes, official certificates or documents must be shared.
- Confirm updated ticket – Ensure the corrected ticket has been reissued with the right details.
If the ticket was booked through a travel agent or online platform, the request may need to be directed to them instead of Finnair directly.
Potential Fees for Corrections
Finnair may charge a service fee for processing name corrections, depending on the ticket type and the change requested. The fee can vary based on:
- Type of fare purchased.
- Route and class of service.
- Timing of the correction request.
Passengers should confirm any applicable charges when requesting the correction.
Special Considerations
- Multiple segment bookings – Corrections apply to the entire booking. If you have connecting flights, the correction will update across all segments.
- Frequent flyer tickets – If booked with points, the same rules apply, but adjustments may need to go through the loyalty program desk.
- Third party bookings – If your ticket was purchased from a travel agency, corrections must usually be processed by them.
Tips to Avoid Name Issues
- Always double check names before finalizing bookings.
- Use the exact name as it appears on your passport or identification.
- Avoid using nicknames or shortened versions of your name.
- Correct errors immediately after receiving confirmation to avoid complications later.
FAQs
1. Can I transfer my Finnair ticket to another person?
No, Finnair does not allow full ticket transfers. Tickets must remain in the name of the original passenger.
2. What types of name corrections are allowed?
Finnair allows minor spelling corrections and legal updates such as name changes due to marriage, divorce, or official documentation.
3. Is there a fee for correcting a name on my ticket?
Yes, Finnair may charge a service fee depending on the type of correction, fare class, and when the request is made.
4. How can I request a correction?
You can contact Finnair customer service directly or reach out to the travel agency where you booked your ticket.
5. Can I correct a name at the airport?
It is strongly recommended to correct names in advance. Some minor adjustments may be possible at the airport but are not guaranteed.
6. Do I need documents for corrections?
For minor spelling errors, documents may not be required. For legal changes, official certificates such as marriage or divorce papers are necessary.
7. What happens if I do not correct a misspelled name?
If the name does not match your identification, you may be denied boarding at check in or security.
8. Can I make multiple corrections on the same ticket?
Usually, Finnair allows only one correction per ticket, so it is important to ensure the corrected name is accurate.
9. Are name corrections possible for tickets purchased with miles?
Yes, but the request must go through the loyalty program service desk if booked with points.
10. Does the correction apply to all flights in my booking?
Yes, corrections apply across all flight segments under the same booking reference.