Yes, it is a critical security requirement that the name on your airline ticket matches the name on your passport exactly. This includes your first, middle (if included in the passport's machine-readable zone), and last name. Airlines and international security agencies (like the TSA or Frontex) use this data to verify your identity against "No Fly" lists and visa records. Even a minor misspelling or a missing hyphen can lead to being denied boarding or facing significant "name change fees" at the airport, which can cost hundreds of dollars. If you have recently married and changed your name but your passport still has your maiden name, you must book the ticket in your maiden name to match the document you will present. The "Secure Flight" data entered during booking must be a 1:1 match. While some airlines are lenient with small typos (like one letter), many international carriers—especially those in Asia and the Middle East—are extremely strict and will require a ticket re-issue for any discrepancy, potentially causing you to miss your flight entirely.