Yes, in 2026, buying a plane ticket for someone else online is a standard procedure, but it requires precise information to avoid airport security issues. When booking, you simply enter the passenger's full name exactly as it appears on their government ID (Passport for international, Driver’s License for domestic). You can use your own credit card for payment, but you must ensure that the "Passenger Details" and "Billing Details" are kept separate in the booking form. In 2026, many airlines have "Gift" or "Guest" checkout options that allow you to send the confirmation directly to the recipient's email. One critical 2026 tip: if you are buying a ticket for a minor or an elderly person, check if the airline requires the original credit card to be presented at check-in (a common fraud-prevention rule in some international markets). To be safe, many 2026 travelers use "Digital Wallet" authorizations or "Verified by Visa" to pre-authorize the transaction so the passenger doesn't need the physical card.
Yes, you can absolutely buy an airline ticket for someone else online in 2026, provided you have their full legal name and date of birth as it appears on their passport or government ID. When booking, you enter the other person's details in the "Passenger Information" section and your own details in the "Billing/Payment" section. Most airlines and travel sites (like Expedia or Google Flights) allow this without issue. However, there are two "pro-tips" to keep in mind: First, ensure you use their email address for the booking or forward the "PNR" confirmation to them immediately so they can manage their own check-in. Second, be aware of "Credit Card Verification" rules; a few international airlines may require the physical card used for the purchase to be presented at the check-in counter to prevent fraud. If you are buying a ticket for someone in another country, it is best to use a major global carrier or a site that offers "verified by Visa/Mastercard" to avoid the ticket being flagged or canceled.