Yes, although every airline's policy is different, it will almost always cost to transfer an airline ticket to another person. Sometimes, the cost of transferring a flight ticket to someone else can actually be more expensive than purchasing an entirely new ticket.

In 2026, the answer for major airlines is still strictly no. Due to global security regulations and anti-fraud policies, a flight ticket is a legal contract tied to the specific name on the passport or ID used during booking. You cannot simply "hand over" your boarding pass to a friend. Most "Legacy" carriers (Delta, United, Emirates) have a non-transferable policy; if you cannot fly, you must cancel for a credit (if eligible) and book a new ticket for your friend at the current market price. However, some Low-Cost Carriers (LCCs) allow a "Name Change" for a substantial fee, often ranging from $75 to $150, plus the difference in fare. This is effectively a transfer, but it must be done through the airline's official system at least 2 to 4 hours before departure. If you have "Cancel for Any Reason" (CFAR) insurance, you can get a refund and then purchase a new ticket for your friend, which is often the most cost-effective way to handle the situation in the modern travel landscape.