Booking an airline ticket requires utmost accuracy, especially when entering personal details such as the passenger’s name. Air France, like most major airlines, maintains strict rules to ensure that the name on the ticket matches the name on the passport or government-issued identification. But what happens if you make a mistake, or if you wish to transfer your ticket to someone else?
This article takes an in-depth look at whether Air France allows ticket name changes or transfers, what the airline’s policies are, and what options you have if you need to correct or modify your details.
Why Passenger Name Accuracy Matters
Air France, as a full-service international airline, follows international aviation and security guidelines. These rules mandate that the passenger’s name on the ticket must exactly match the traveler’s official ID or passport. Even small discrepancies, such as a missing letter or a reversed name order, can create problems during check-in, security screening, and boarding.
This is why Air France and virtually all airlines’ places restrictions on name changes or transfers. Allowing someone to completely change the passenger on a ticket could lead to misuse, resale, or fraud, which is why policies are strict.
Can You Transfer an Air France Ticket to Another Person?
The short answer is: No, Air France does not allow ticket transfers to another person. Once a ticket has been issued, it is strictly non-transferable. This means that if you booked a ticket in your name, you cannot later decide to change the name entirely so that a different person can use the ticket.
For example:
- You cannot replace “John Smith” with “Emma Johnson.”
- You cannot purchase a discounted ticket and then resell it under someone else’s name.
If you are unable to travel, your only options are to cancel your ticket (if the fare rules allow refunds) or request a voucher for future travel. However, the ticket itself cannot be reassigned to another traveler.
Can You Change a Misspelled Name on an Air France Ticket?
While full name transfers are not possible, Air France does allow minor corrections to misspelled names. This is different from transferring a ticket and is considered a correction rather than a change of identity.
Types of Corrections Allowed:
- Spelling Errors – If your name is misspelled by a few letters, Air France usually permits corrections. Example: “Smiht” corrected to “Smith.”
- Letter Reversals – If your first and last names are swapped, the airline may fix this. Example: “Doe John” corrected to “John Doe.”
- Missing Middle Name – Often, middle names are not mandatory. As long as the first and last names match, you can usually travel without issue.
- Legal Name Changes – If you changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or other legal reasons, Air France may update your booking upon receiving official documentation.
How to Request a Name Correction on Air France
If you discover a mistake in your name, the correction process depends on how you booked your ticket.
- Booked Directly with Air France (Website/App/Call Center)
- Log in to “My Bookings” on the Air France website.
- Check if a self-service option is available for correcting minor typos.
- If not, contact Air France customer service directly.
- Provide your booking reference, correct spelling, and valid ID or passport.
- Booked Through a Travel Agency or Online Travel Agency (OTA)
- You must contact the agency or OTA directly.
- The agency will then liaise with Air France to request a correction.
- Additional service fees may apply depending on the agency’s policy.
- At the Airport Ticket Counter
- If you notice the mistake close to your travel date, you can request correction at the airport counter.
- Bring your passport and booking details.
- Note: Same-day corrections at the airport may be more costly.
Fees for Name Corrections on Air France
Whether or not you will be charged for a name correction depends on the type of error and the timing.
- Minor Typographical Errors – Usually free if corrected within 24 hours of booking. After that, a fee may apply (often around €20–€50).
- Major Corrections (Legal Name Change) – May require supporting documents and could involve fees depending on the fare class.
- Booked via Agencies – Travel agencies or OTAs may add extra service fees beyond what Air France charges.
It’s always advisable to correct errors as soon as possible, ideally within the first 24 hours after booking.
Situations Where Corrections Are Not Allowed
Even though Air France is flexible with minor corrections, there are strict limitations:
- No Full Name Changes – You cannot change the passenger from one person to another.
- No Nickname-to-Legal Name Substitutions – “Mike” to “Michael” usually requires correction, but not if it seems like a completely different person.
- Post Check-In Restrictions – Once you have checked in, corrections are no longer possible.
- Low-Cost Fare Restrictions – Some heavily discounted fares may have stricter conditions.
Example Scenarios
To make it easier to understand, here are some practical scenarios:
- Scenario 1: You booked a ticket as “Jhon Smith” instead of “John Smith.”
→ Air France allows this correction. - Scenario 2: You booked as “Anna Marie Brown” but your passport says “Anna Brown.”
→ Usually not a problem; middle names are not always required. - Scenario 3: You booked a ticket in your name but now want your friend to use it.
→ Not possible, as tickets cannot be transferred. - Scenario 4: You got married and your passport now shows a different surname.
→ Allowed if you provide a marriage certificate and request the correction.
Tips to Avoid Name Mistakes on Air France Tickets
- Always Use Your Passport – Enter names exactly as shown on your travel document.
- Double-Check Before Payment – Review your details carefully before clicking “confirm.”
- Book Early – The earlier you book, the more time you’ll have to spot and fix mistakes.
- Check Confirmation Emails – As soon as you receive your e-ticket, verify the name right away.
- Avoid Nicknames – Use full legal names rather than shortened versions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I transfer my Air France ticket to someone else?
No. Air France tickets are non-transferable and cannot be given to another person.
Q2. Can I correct a misspelled name for free?
Yes, small corrections may be free if done within 24 hours. Otherwise, fees may apply.
Q3. Do middle name mistakes matter?
Not usually. As long as your first and last names match your passport, middle name errors are generally acceptable.
Q4. How do I fix a mistake if I booked through Expedia or another OTA?
You must contact the OTA or agency directly to request a correction.
Q5. Can I change my surname if I recently got married?
Yes, but you’ll need to provide a marriage certificate or other official documentation.
Conclusion
Air France does not allow ticket transfers to another person under any circumstances. However, the airline does recognize that mistakes happen and therefore permits minor name corrections for misspelled names, swapped first and last names, or legal name changes with documentation.
If you notice an error, act quickly preferably within 24 hours of booking to avoid extra fees. If you booked directly with Air France, corrections are easier. If you booked through an agency, you’ll need to contact them instead.
The best way to avoid issues altogether is to double-check your details during the booking process. Remember, a small oversight can cause big problems at the airport. By understanding Air France’s policies and acting promptly, you can travel with confidence, knowing your ticket details align with your identification.