Changing your name on flight bookings after marriage
Call your airline's customer service line immediately upon noticing the discrepancy. Most airlines will allow a free name correction if you provide a copy of your marriage certificate, provided the flight has not yet departed.
- Check the airline's policy. Before calling, check the airline's website for their 'name correction policy.' Low-cost carriers often charge high fees for changes, while legacy carriers usually offer one-time corrections for free if you have documentation.
- Gather your documents. Have your marriage certificate and your new passport (or ID) ready. You will likely need to email a scanned copy or upload it to their secure portal.
- Call the airline directly. Avoid using third-party travel agencies if possible. Call the airline's official support number. Be polite but firm that this is a legal name change due to marriage.
- Verify the PNR. After the agent makes the change, ask for a new confirmation email. Check that the PNR (6-digit booking reference) remains the same and that your name is spelled exactly as it appears on your government-issued ID.
- Can I just fly using my maiden name?
- If your ticket name matches your current passport, yes. You do not need to change your flight booking until you receive your new passport under your married name.
- What if I booked through a site like Expedia?
- You must contact the third-party booking site first. They act as the owner of the ticket and the airline often cannot modify it until the agency authorizes the change.
- Does the TSA care about name changes?
- The name on your ticket must match your TSA-approved ID. If your ID has not been updated yet, do not change your flight ticket name.