Booking a flight is always an exciting moment, but it also comes with responsibility. Among the most critical details passengers must double-check is the accuracy of the name on their airline ticket. Airlines, including Aer Lingus, require that the name on the ticket exactly matches the name on the traveler’s government-issued identification. Even the smallest discrepancy like a missing letter or swapped initial can create complications at the airport.
This naturally leads to a common question: Does Aer Lingus allow ticket name changes or transfers?
In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore Aer Lingus’ policies on ticket name corrections, transfers, and changes in detail. We’ll cover everything from simple misspellings to complete passenger name changes, the costs involved, restrictions, and tips for avoiding mistakes. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what Aer Lingus allows—and what it doesn’t—when it comes to names on tickets.
Why the Name on Your Aer Lingus Ticket Matters
Before diving into the policies, it’s important to understand why airlines are so strict about ticket names.
- Security Regulations – Aviation security standards set by authorities like the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), and U.S. TSA require that the name on a boarding pass matches the traveler’s passport or ID.
- Fraud Prevention – Preventing fraudulent transfers of airline tickets is another key reason. Without strict name policies, people could buy tickets under promotions and resell them at higher prices.
- Booking Systems – Once a ticket is issued, it is tied to a specific passenger record. Changing the name essentially alters the passenger identity, which can interfere with reservation systems and airline security protocols.
This is why Aer Lingus, like most airlines, treats name corrections differently from ticket transfers.
Can You Transfer an Aer Lingus Ticket to Another Person?
The short answer is No.
Aer Lingus does not allow tickets to be transferred from one passenger to another. Once a ticket is issued in a person’s name, it is non-transferable. If the original passenger cannot travel, the ticket cannot simply be handed to someone else.
Instead, passengers would need to cancel (subject to fare rules) or book a new ticket for the new traveler.
Reasons for this restriction:
- Compliance with international aviation security rules.
- Prevention of unauthorized resale or misuse of discounted tickets.
- Maintaining consistency in passenger booking data.
So, if your intent is to buy a ticket and later pass it on to another person, Aer Lingus will not accommodate that request.
Does Aer Lingus Allow Name Changes?
While full ticket transfers are not permitted, Aer Lingus does allow certain name corrections and changes.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s possible:
- Minor Name Corrections (Typos and Misspellings)
If your name is misspelled by a letter or two—for example, “Jonh” instead of “John” or “Smiht” instead of “Smith”—Aer Lingus typically allows a correction.
- These corrections are permitted because the identity of the passenger is still clear.
- Minor errors can usually be fixed online, through the call center, or at the airport desk.
- Depending on your fare type, Aer Lingus may apply a correction fee.
- Middle Name Issues
Some passengers accidentally leave out their middle names or include unnecessary initials. Aer Lingus usually does not require a middle name on tickets, so this is rarely a problem. However, if your middle name appears incorrectly and needs updating, a correction may be possible.
- Legal Name Changes (Marriage, Divorce, Court Order)
If you have legally changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or other reasons, Aer Lingus allows you to update your ticket to match your passport or official ID.
- You will be required to provide supporting documentation (such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
- This is treated as a correction, not a transfer, since the same passenger is still traveling.
- Major Name Changes (Replacing Passenger Identity)
Aer Lingus does not permit changing the entire passenger name to that of another person. This would be considered a transfer, which is strictly prohibited.
How to Request a Name Change with Aer Lingus
If you discover a mistake on your ticket, you should act as quickly as possible. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Review Your Booking Details
Log in to the Aer Lingus website or app and review the exact spelling of the name on your ticket. Compare it with your passport or government-issued ID.
Step 2: Determine the Type of Correction
- Minor typo: A simple letter correction.
- Legal name change: Requires documents.
- Full name transfer: Not allowed.
Step 3: Contact Aer Lingus
You can reach out through:
- Aer Lingus website (Manage Trip section)
- Customer care phone line
- Airport service desk
Step 4: Provide Documentation if Needed
For legal name changes, prepare to provide marriage or court documents.
Step 5: Pay Any Applicable Fees
Name correction fees vary depending on route, ticket type, and when you request the correction.
Aer Lingus Name Change Fees
Aer Lingus applies a name change fee, which depends on:
- Route type (short-haul vs. long-haul)
- How the correction is made (online is usually cheaper than at the airport)
- Timing (earlier corrections tend to be smoother and cheaper)
General Fee Ranges (subject to fare rules)
- Online correction: Typically lower (around €100 / $110 per passenger for long-haul routes, and less for short-haul).
- Via call center or airport: Often higher than online requests.
It’s always best to check Aer Lingus’ current fee structure at the time of your correction, as policies and fees may change.
Name Change Rules by Fare Type
Aer Lingus offers different fare types, and name change rules may vary:
- Saver or Smart Fares – Lower-cost fares are generally more restrictive, with name correction fees applied in most cases.
- Plus or Advantage Fares – May allow slightly more flexibility but still require a fee for corrections.
- Business Class – Offers the most flexibility, but even here, ticket transfers are not allowed.
Time Limits for Making Name Changes
Aer Lingus requires passengers to request name corrections before travel begins.
- Corrections must be made at least 2 hours before scheduled departure.
- Last-minute corrections at the airport may be possible but are subject to availability and higher fees.
Tips to Avoid Name Mistakes When Booking Aer Lingus
- Double-Check Before Paying – Always review spelling carefully before clicking “confirm.”
- Use Your Passport Name – Enter your name exactly as it appears on your passport or government-issued ID.
- Avoid Nicknames – Do not use shortened versions like “Mike” instead of “Michael.”
- Be Careful with Autofill – Browser autofill sometimes inserts wrong middle names or initials.
- Book Early – If you spot an error, you’ll have more time to fix it without stress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I transfer my Aer Lingus ticket to another person?
No. Aer Lingus tickets are strictly non-transferable.
- Can I fix a misspelled name on my ticket?
Yes. Minor spelling errors can be corrected for a fee.
- Does Aer Lingus require a middle name on tickets?
No, middle names are usually not required.
- Can I change my last name after marriage?
Yes, with supporting legal documentation.
- How much does Aer Lingus charge for name changes?
Fees vary but typically range from €60–€120, depending on route and booking method.
- Can I make a correction at the airport?
Yes, but it’s riskier and more expensive than correcting online in advance.
Practical Example
Scenario 1: You booked a ticket for “Sarah Jonson” instead of “Sarah Johnson.”
- Correction allowed.
- Likely fee: €60–€100 depending on route.
Scenario 2: You booked a ticket in your name but now want your spouse to travel instead.
- Not allowed.
- You must cancel and book a new ticket.
Scenario 3: You got married and your passport now shows your spouse’s last name.
- Correction allowed with marriage certificate.
The Bottom Line
So, does Aer Lingus allow ticket name changes or transfers?
- Transfers: No, tickets cannot be given or sold to another person.
- Name Corrections: Yes, but only if it’s the same passenger. Minor spelling errors, legal name updates, and adjustments are permitted, subject to fees.
The best approach is to double-check your booking details carefully at the time of reservation. If you do spot an error, contact Aer Lingus immediately to resolve it. Acting quickly not only saves time and stress but can also reduce fees.
Ultimately, while Aer Lingus maintains strict rules to comply with security and industry standards, the airline does provide a reasonable path for passengers who need legitimate corrections.