When booking flights, it’s easy to make small errors especially with passenger names. A simple typo can cause unnecessary travel headaches and, in some cases, prevent you from boarding your flight. If you’re traveling with Frontier Airlines and find yourself in such a situation, you might be wondering whether the airline allows ticket name changes or transfers.
This detailed guide explores Frontier Airlines’ name change policy, including whether ticket transfers are permitted, what types of name changes are allowed, how to make them, possible fees, and helpful tips to avoid issues in the future.
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Understanding Frontier Airlines’ Name Change Policy
Frontier Airlines is known for its budget-friendly fares and a variety of customizable add-ons, but like most carriers, it maintains a strict passenger name policy due to aviation security regulations.
- Ticket Transfers: Frontier Airlines does not allow a ticket to be transferred from one person to another. If you cannot travel, you generally cannot give or sell your ticket to someone else. Instead, you may need to cancel your flight and rebook for the other person at the available fare.
- Name Corrections: While full name changes to a different traveler are not allowed, minor name corrections for the same passenger are possible. This includes fixing misspellings, adjusting middle names, or updating last names after marriage or divorce (with documentation).
- Why Does Frontier Not Allow Ticket Transfers?
The no-transfer policy exists for two main reasons:
- Security Requirements: U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules require the passenger’s name on the ticket to match exactly with the government-issued ID presented at security checkpoints.
- Fare Protection: Allowing name transfers could lead to reselling tickets at higher prices, which would disrupt fare structures and airline revenue management.
Types of Name Changes Frontier Allows
Frontier Airlines’ approach focuses on name corrections rather than transfers. Here’s what’s typically allowed:
- Spelling Errors: If you typed “Jonh” instead of “John” or “Smth” instead of “Smith,” you can request a correction.
- Middle Name Adjustments: Adding, removing, or correcting a middle name or initial.
- Name Changes Due to Marriage or Divorce: With legal proof (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), Frontier will update your name to reflect the legal change.
- Hyphenated or Double-Barreled Names: Adjustments are possible when legal documents support the correct format.
Not Allowed:
- Changing the passenger to a completely different person.
- Switching tickets between family members or friends.
- Altering the name to bypass fare differences.
How to Request a Name Correction
Frontier Airlines offers several ways to request a name correction:
- a) Online via My Trip
- Go to the Frontier Airlines website.
- Select “My Trip/Check-In.”
- Enter your last name and confirmation code.
- If eligible, you may see an option to correct your name directly online.
- b) By Calling Frontier Airlines Customer Service
- Contact Frontier Reservations at their official phone number.
- Be ready with your confirmation code, travel dates, and correct name spelling.
- If documentation is needed (e.g., for legal name changes), you may be asked to email or upload it.
- c) At the Airport Ticket Counter
- For urgent situations (like same-day travel), visit a Frontier ticket counter.
- Bring your government-issued photo ID and any legal documents if applicable.
Required Documents for Legal Name Changes
For legal name updates (marriage, divorce, or court order), you will typically need:
- Government-issued ID showing the updated name.
- Legal proof such as:
- Marriage certificate.
- Divorce decree.
- Court-issued name change order.
Fees for Name Changes or Corrections
Frontier Airlines charges fees for certain name changes, depending on the type of correction and timing:
- Minor spelling corrections: Often free if caught immediately after booking (within 24 hours).
- After 24 hours: May incur a service fee, typically ranging from $75 to $150 depending on the situation.
- Legal name changes: Fees may be waived if proper documentation is provided.
Fees can also vary based on whether you request the change online, via phone, or at the airport.
Special Circumstances and Exceptions
a) 24-Hour Flexible Booking Policy
Frontier Airlines follows the U.S. Department of Transportation’s rule allowing passengers to cancel or change bookings within 24 hours of purchase (if the booking is made at least 7 days before departure) without penalties. This is the best time to fix errors for free.
b) Frontier Miles Members
If you are a member of Frontier’s loyalty program, you may be able to update your account name first and then match it to your booking for easier processing.
c) Group Bookings
For group travel arranged through a travel agent or tour operator, name correction policies may differ. You may need to coordinate through the booking source.
Step-by-Step Guide to Correcting a Name on Frontier Airlines
Here’s a simple breakdown of what to do:
- Check Your Confirmation Email: Identify the error immediately after booking.
- Act Quickly: If you’re within 24 hours of purchase, correct the error right away to avoid fees.
- Gather Documentation: If it’s a legal name change, have your paperwork ready.
- Contact Frontier: Use the most efficient method—online for small corrections, phone or airport for more complex ones.
- Confirm Update: Always get written confirmation or an updated itinerary showing the corrected name.
Avoiding Name Errors in the Future
- Double-Check Before Booking: Always match the name on your ticket to your government-issued ID exactly.
- Use Autofill Carefully: Ensure that autofill from your browser doesn’t insert nicknames or outdated names.
- Book Through Trusted Sources: Whether it’s Frontier’s website or a reputable travel agency, avoid third-party sites with unclear change policies.
What Happens If You Don’t Correct a Name Error?
If your ticket name does not exactly match your ID, the TSA may deny you boarding. Airlines can also refuse check-in until the name issue is resolved, which may result in missed flights and lost fare value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I give my Frontier ticket to a friend if I can’t travel?
No. Frontier does not allow transferring a ticket to a different passenger.
Q2: What if I only need to change my middle name?
Middle name corrections are allowed and usually simple to process.
Q3: Will I be charged if I fix my name right after booking?
If done within 24 hours and at least 7 days before travel, it’s often free.
Q4: Can I change my name at the airport on the day of travel?
Yes, but it’s risky. Always try to fix it beforehand to avoid delays or denial of boarding.
Frontier Airlines does not permit ticket name transfers to a different passenger, but they do allow name corrections for the same traveler. The process is straightforward for small typos, while legal name changes require documentation. Fees vary, but acting within 24 hours of booking is the safest way to avoid charges.
By double-checking details before purchasing and understanding Frontier’s policies, you can prevent costly mistakes and ensure a smooth travel experience.