Yes, it's possible to change a passenger's name on a flight booking, but it largely depends on the airline's policies and the type of ticket you've purchased. Flexible or refundable tickets often allow easier name changes, while non-refundable tickets may have more restrictions.

Generally, you cannot change passengers (transfer a ticket to a different person) once a flight is booked. Most airlines, particularly major carriers like Delta, United, and Emirates, have a strict "non-transferable" policy for security and revenue reasons. If you cannot travel, the standard procedure is to cancel the ticket and receive a credit (minus any fees), and then book a new ticket for the new passenger at the current market price. However, some ultra-low-cost carriers (ULCCs), particularly in Europe like Ryanair and EasyJet, do allow "name changes" for a significant fee that often exceeds the price of the original ticket. In 2026, many Indian airlines like IndiGo also maintain that tickets are non-transferable; you must cancel and rebook. Small spelling corrections for the same passenger (e.g., a typo in the last name) are usually permitted for free or a small service charge, but swapping "Person A" for "Person B" is a nearly universal "no" in the aviation industry.

Yes, you can often change passengers on a booked flight, but it is not a simple name correction and is typically treated as a significant change by airlines. Here’s what you need to know:

Key Points:

1. It’s Usually Not Allowed for Free or Easily - Most airlines prohibit simple passenger name swaps to prevent ticket resale and for security reasons. - What is often marketed as “name change” is usually only for minor spelling corrections (e.g., Jon to John) within a strict character limit.

2. Process & Fees - If the airline does allow it, they typically require you to cancel the original ticket and purchase a new one for the new passenger. - This involves:

   • Paying a cancellation/change fee (often high).
   • Paying any fare difference for the new ticket.
   • The original fare might be refunded as a travel credit (often in the original passenger’s name), not cash.

3. Airlines Have Strict Policies - Low-cost carriers (e.g., Ryanair, EasyJet, Spirit) are especially strict and rarely allow any name changes. - Full-service airlines (e.g., Delta, Emirates, Lufthansa) may have more flexible but costly options. Always check your airline’s specific policy.

4. Exceptions & Special Cases - Marriage/Divorce: Legal name changes with documentation are usually permitted. - Inherited Tickets: Some airlines may allow transfers in case of death of the original passenger (with a death certificate). - Group Bookings: May have different rules. - Transferable Tickets: A few premium fares or specific airlines (like some in Asia) offer transferable tickets for a fee.

What You Should Do:

1. Contact the Airline or Your Travel Agent Immediately. - Do not assume it’s possible. Policies vary widely.
2. Have Details Ready: - Booking reference, passenger names, and reason for the change.
3. Compare Costs: - Ask for the total cost to change the passenger vs. buying a new ticket and canceling the old one (even if only getting a credit).
4. Check Travel Insurance: - Some policies may cover name change fees under certain circumstances