Does Finnair Allow Ticket Name Change or Transfer?

Air travel requires accuracy in every detail, especially when it comes to passenger information. Among the most common concerns travelers face is whether they can change the name on their flight ticket or transfer it to another person. Finnair, the national airline of Finland, has clear policies regarding ticket name changes and transfers. Understanding these rules can save you time, money, and stress before your trip.

In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore whether Finnair allows ticket name changes or transfers, the conditions that apply, fees involved, and step-by-step instructions to correct errors or make adjustments.

 

1. Why Name Accuracy Matters in Air Travel

Before diving into Finnair’s specific rules, it’s important to understand why airlines enforce strict name policies:

1. Security Requirements – The name on your ticket must match your passport or official ID exactly. Even a single-letter typo can raise red flags at airport security.
2. Immigration Compliance – Border control authorities require exact matching details to grant entry.
3. Fraud Prevention – Non-transferable tickets prevent fraudulent reselling or misuse.
4. Boarding Validity – A mismatch between ticket and ID could result in denied boarding.

Because of these reasons, airlines—including Finnair—limit name changes and completely prohibit certain types of modifications.

 

2. Name Change vs. Name Correction vs. Ticket Transfer

Finnair makes a clear distinction between corrections, changes, and transfers:

• Name Correction: Adjusting small spelling mistakes so that the name matches the passenger’s ID.
  • Example: “Jhon” corrected to “John.”
• Name Change: Replacing the existing name with a different one, usually when a traveler cannot use the ticket.
  • Example: Changing “Anna Virtanen” to “Laura Niemi.”
• Ticket Transfer: Giving your ticket to another person to use, essentially changing ownership.

Finnair allows certain types of name corrections, but it does not allow full ticket transfers.

 

3. Finnair’s Policy on Ticket Name Corrections

Finnair understands that typos happen. If the mistake is small and unintentional, you can request a correction.

Rules for Name Corrections:

1. Minor Typographical Errors – Small spelling mistakes (a few characters) can usually be corrected.
2. Middle Names – Adding or removing middle names is generally acceptable if it matches your passport.
3. Title Adjustments – Correcting “Mr” to “Ms” or “Mrs” is permitted.
4. Legal Name Changes – If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or other legal reasons, you’ll need to provide valid documentation.
5. Limitations – Only minor corrections are allowed. Completely replacing a passenger’s name is not permitted.

 

4. Finnair’s Policy on Ticket Name Changes

Now let’s address the bigger question:

Does Finnair allow full name changes?

No. Finnair does not allow complete passenger name changes.

Once a ticket is issued, it is non-transferable. The only adjustments permitted are spelling corrections or legal changes backed by documents.

Example Situations:

•  Allowed: Correcting “Karri” to “Kari”
•  Allowed: Adding a missing middle name
•  Allowed: Changing surname after marriage with certificate proof
•  Not Allowed: Changing “Mikko Laine” to “Timo Laine”
•  Not Allowed: Giving your ticket to a friend if you cannot travel

 

5. Finnair’s Policy on Ticket Transfers

Many travelers wonder: Can I transfer my Finnair ticket to another person?

No. Finnair tickets are strictly non-transferable.

This means you cannot simply change the passenger name to someone else. If the original traveler cannot use the ticket, the only option is to cancel (if refundable) or book a new ticket for the other person.

This aligns with the standard policy of most full-service airlines worldwide.

 

6. How to Correct a Misspelled Name on a Finnair Ticket

If you notice a mistake, act quickly. Here’s the process:

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Check Your Ticket Immediately – Compare with your passport.
2. Go to Finnair’s Website – Log into “Manage Booking.”
3. Look for Correction Option – Small typos may be editable online.
4. Contact Finnair Customer Service – If online correction is not possible.
5. Provide Supporting Documents – Passport or legal proof of correct name.
6. Pay Fees if Applicable – Minor corrections may be free, but some cases involve charges.
7. Receive Confirmation – Finnair will reissue or update your ticket.

7. Fees for Name Corrections on Finnair

Finnair may charge fees depending on the type of correction:

• Minor Typo Corrections – Often free if corrected shortly after booking.
• Corrections via Call Center – Service fees apply, usually €25–€50 per passenger.
• Legal Name Changes – May involve ticket reissuance and possible fare difference.
• At the Airport – Fees are generally higher, and corrections may not always be possible.

👉 The exact fee can vary based on route, ticket type, and location of purchase.

 

8. Special Cases for Finnair Name Corrections
9. Within 24 Hours of Booking

If you spot an error within 24 hours of purchase, corrections are often free of charge.

1. Codeshare Flights

If your Finnair booking involves a codeshare partner (like British Airways, American Airlines, or Japan Airlines), you must follow the operating carrier’s rules.

1. Group Bookings

For group tickets, name corrections must be handled through the travel agent or Finnair group desk.

 

9. What Happens If You Don’t Correct a Misspelled Name?

Failing to fix a name error can cause serious problems:

1. Check-in Issues – The system may flag a mismatch between ticket and ID.
2. Denied Boarding – Security and gate agents may refuse boarding.
3. Immigration Problems – Mismatched documents can prevent you from entering your destination country.
4. Ticket Waste – An unused ticket cannot be refunded if it’s non-refundable.

That’s why correcting errors as soon as possible is essential.

 

10. Real-Life Scenarios

Scenario 1: Minor Typo

Passenger booked as “Annna Korhonen” instead of “Anna Korhonen.”

• Correction allowed.
• Small service fee may apply.

Scenario 2: Legal Name Change

Passenger got married and changed surname from “Lehtinen” to “Virtanen.”

• Correction permitted with marriage certificate.
• Ticket reissued.

Scenario 3: Attempted Transfer

Passenger wants to give ticket to a friend.

• Not allowed.
• Must buy a new ticket.

 

11. How to Contact Finnair for Name Corrections

You can reach Finnair through:

• Website: Manage Booking section
• Customer Service Hotline
• Finnair Ticket Office
• Airport Service Desk
• Travel Agency (if booked through one)

Tip: Always have your booking reference and passport ready when contacting support.

 

12. Tips to Avoid Name Errors on Finnair

1. Use your passport name exactly when booking.
2. Double-check spelling before confirming.
3. Avoid nicknames or abbreviations (use “Jonathan,” not “Jon”).
4. Book directly with Finnair for easier corrections.
5. Check booking confirmation immediately and report mistakes within 24 hours.

 

13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I transfer my Finnair ticket to someone else?
No. Finnair tickets are non-transferable.

Q2: Can I change the entire passenger name?
No. Only minor corrections are allowed.

Q3: What if my middle name is missing?
You may add it to match your passport; contact Finnair.

Q4: Is there a fee for corrections?
Yes, typically €25–€50, unless fixed within 24 hours.

Q5: Can I correct my name at the airport?
Yes, but it’s riskier, and fees are higher.

Q6: What if my flight is with a partner airline?
The operating carrier’s policy will apply.

 

14. Conclusion

So, does Finnair allow ticket name changes or transfers?

• ✅ Name corrections are allowed for minor spelling mistakes, missing middle names, or legal name updates with documentation.
• ❌ Full name changes are not permitted.
• ❌ Ticket transfers are not allowed.

In essence, once a ticket is issued, it belongs to the passenger whose name is printed on it. If you make a small mistake, Finnair provides ways to correct it, though fees may apply. But if you intend to transfer the ticket to another person, you’ll need to purchase a new one.

The key takeaway is: Always double-check your details when booking. If errors happen, contact Finnair immediately for the smoothest resolution. Acting early often saves money, time, and travel stress.