Can I change a flight booking to another person?

Can I Transfer My Flight Booking to Someone Else? The Short Answer: Probably Not.

So, you’ve booked a flight, but something’s come up. You can’t go, but a friend or family member can. Can you simply transfer your ticket? Unfortunately, the answer is usually no. While the ease of online booking might lead you to believe this is a simple process, the reality is that most major airlines have strict policies prohibiting the transfer of flight bookings to another person.

This isn’t a matter of airline being difficult; it comes down to security and legal considerations. Airline tickets are essentially contracts between you and the airline, outlining specific terms and conditions. These contracts are tied to the passenger’s identification, used for security screening and passenger manifests. Changing the passenger name essentially breaks this contract.

Airlines like Delta, United, American, Southwest, and JetBlue – to name a few of the largest carriers – all adhere to this policy. Their websites clearly state that transferring a booking to a different person is generally not allowed. While some might offer minor name corrections (such as a middle name addition or a misspelling fix), significant changes that alter the passenger’s identity are forbidden.

What are your options if you can’t travel?

Instead of trying to transfer the booking, consider these alternatives:

• Cancelling and Rebooking: This is often the most straightforward solution, although it may come with fees. Check your ticket’s cancellation policy; some tickets offer more flexibility than others. Your friend or family member will then need to book a new ticket in their name.
• Contacting the Airline Directly: While unlikely to result in a simple transfer, it’s worth contacting the airline’s customer service. There might be exceptional circumstances under which they’ll consider a change, but don’t expect miracles. Be prepared to explain your situation thoroughly.
• Travel Insurance: If you purchased travel insurance, it might cover cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances. This could help recoup some of the costs associated with canceling your original booking.
• Name Change Fees (Limited Circumstances): Some airlines may allow name changes, but these usually come with significant fees and often have strict time limits. Check with your airline to see if this is an option and if the fees are financially feasible.

In summary, while it might seem convenient to simply transfer your flight booking, it’s generally not permitted. Planning ahead and understanding the airline’s policies is crucial to avoid unexpected complications and costs. Always check the specific terms and conditions of your ticket and contact the airline directly if you have any questions or require assistance.