Does Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) Allow Ticket Name Change or Transfer?

When it comes to air travel, one of the most critical requirements is that the name on the ticket matches the name on the passenger’s identification documents. A mismatch, even by a single letter, can lead to issues at check-in, airport security, or immigration controls. Travelers often wonder whether airlines allow flexibility to change or transfer a ticket to another person in case of booking errors or unexpected changes in travel plans.

For passengers flying with Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), the question is especially important: Does SAS allow ticket name change or transfer? The answer is nuanced. While SAS permits limited name corrections, it does not generally allow the transfer of tickets to an entirely different passenger. This article explores the airline’s policies in depth, explains the difference between corrections and transfers, outlines the process for handling such requests, and offers tips for travelers to avoid unnecessary complications.

 

1. Why Ticket Names Matter in Air Travel

Before diving into SAS’s specific policies, it’s important to understand why airlines take names so seriously.

• Security requirements: Aviation security regulations demand that passenger details match government-issued identification exactly.
• Fraud prevention: Non-transferable tickets prevent reselling or misuse of discounted fares.
• System integration: Airlines share passenger data with immigration and customs authorities, making accuracy essential.

Because of these reasons, most airlines—including SAS—treat ticket names as non-negotiable identifiers.

 

2. The Difference Between Name Change and Name Correction

A key to understanding SAS’s approach is distinguishing between name corrections and name changes/transfers.

Name Corrections

• Minor edits such as fixing a typo, correcting a misspelling, or adjusting characters (e.g., replacing “ö” with “o”).
• SAS typically allows these corrections with little or no cost, especially if identified early.
• Corrections do not change the identity of the traveler; they only ensure the name matches the travel documents.

Name Changes (Transfers)

• Refers to substituting a completely different person as the traveler.
• This includes cases where a passenger cannot travel and wants to give their ticket to a friend or family member.
• SAS does not allow outright ticket transfers because tickets are personal and non-transferable.
• Exceptions are very rare, and generally only possible if the name change is due to a legal reason such as marriage, divorce, or a court order.

Understanding this distinction is critical because while SAS is relatively flexible about corrections, it is very strict about preventing passenger transfers.

 

3. SAS Policy on Ticket Name Corrections

SAS allows name corrections under specific conditions:

1. Typographical Errors
   • Simple mistakes like “Andres” instead of “Anders” or “Jonsen” instead of “Johansen” can usually be corrected.
   • These are not treated as full name changes.
2. Diacritical Marks and Characters
   • Scandinavian languages often use special letters such as Å, Ä, Ö, and Ø. If the booking system replaces them with “A” or “O,” SAS recognizes this as normal and usually doesn’t require a correction.
3. First/Last Name Order
   • If your first and last names are swapped in the booking, SAS can amend it.
4. Omitted Middle Names
   • While middle names are not always required, if they appear on your passport and are missing from the ticket, SAS may allow a correction.

Fees for Corrections

• Corrections may be free if reported immediately (within 24 hours of booking).
• After this period, a small administrative fee may apply (often in the range of €50–€70, though this varies by region).
• If booked via a travel agency or third-party platform, additional service charges may apply.

 

4. SAS Policy on Ticket Name Changes or Transfers

This is where SAS draws a strict line. In almost all cases, SAS does not allow ticket transfers or complete name changes. Tickets are issued to specific passengers and cannot be reassigned.

Reasons for Prohibition

• Non-transferability rule: Airline tickets are contracts tied to the named traveler and cannot be resold or given away.
• Revenue protection: Allowing transfers could encourage a secondary ticket market, undermining SAS’s fare structures.
• Regulatory compliance: Passenger data is transmitted to border and security authorities before departure, requiring fixed identities.

Exceptions

There are a few limited exceptions where SAS may permit a name change:

1. Legal Name Changes
   • If your passport has changed due to marriage, divorce, or legal decree, SAS will allow the ticket to be updated.
   • Documentation such as a marriage certificate or official court papers must be provided.
2. Group Bookings
   • For large group bookings made through SAS’s group desk, limited name substitutions may be permitted before ticket issuance. Once issued, however, the general non-transferability rule applies.
3. Special Corporate Agreements
   • Some corporate contracts with SAS include more flexible name-change policies. If your ticket is booked under such an agreement, check with your company travel desk.

 

5. How to Request a Name Correction with SAS

If you discover an error in your name on a SAS ticket, here’s the step-by-step process:

Step 1: Review Your Ticket Immediately

Check the confirmation email as soon as you book. Errors are easiest to correct within the first 24 hours.

Step 2: Contact the Correct Channel

• Booked directly through SAS (website or app): Use the “Manage Booking” feature or call SAS customer service.
• Booked through a travel agency: Contact the agency directly; they will coordinate the correction with SAS.

Step 3: Provide Documentation

• Share your booking reference (PNR) and ticket number.
• Provide a copy of your passport or ID to show the correct spelling.
• If it’s a legal name change, include supporting documents.

Step 4: Pay Any Applicable Fees

SAS will inform you of fees before making the correction.

Step 5: Verify Updated Ticket

Ensure your new e-ticket matches your travel documents exactly.

 

6. What If You Don’t Correct the Name?

Failing to correct a misspelled or mismatched name can cause major problems:

• Denied boarding: SAS may not allow you to check in if the name doesn’t match your ID.
• Security issues: Airport security and immigration can reject your documents.
• Financial loss: You may be forced to buy a last-minute replacement ticket at full price.

Correcting a name early is always less expensive than facing these consequences.

 

7. Special Cases with SAS Tickets

EuroBonus Award Tickets

• Award tickets booked with SAS EuroBonus points follow similar rules.
• Name corrections are allowed but may require contacting SAS customer service directly.
• Transfers of award tickets to another person are not permitted.

Codeshare Flights

• If your SAS booking includes partner airlines (such as Lufthansa or United), the name correction process may be more complicated.
• SAS will need to coordinate with the partner airline, which may apply additional restrictions or fees.

Group Reservations

• For groups, limited corrections are allowed before ticket issuance. Once tickets are issued, changes are far more restricted.

 

8. Practical Tips to Avoid Name Issues on SAS Tickets

1. Always use your passport as reference when entering your name during booking.
2. Double-check before payment to catch errors early.
3. Book directly with SAS instead of third-party platforms to simplify correction requests.
4. Correct errors immediately—within 24 hours if possible.
5. Avoid using nicknames; always use your full legal name.

 

9. Illustrative Scenarios

Scenario 1: Minor Typo Correction

Anna’s name was entered as “Ana” on her Copenhagen–Oslo ticket. She contacts SAS within 12 hours of booking. The correction is free, and her ticket is reissued with the correct name.

Scenario 2: Attempted Ticket Transfer

Jonas cannot travel from Stockholm to Paris and asks SAS to transfer his ticket to his friend Erik. SAS refuses, explaining that tickets are non-transferable. Jonas either cancels for a partial refund (depending on fare type) or forfeits the ticket.

Scenario 3: Legal Name Change

Maria recently married and changed her surname from “Larsen” to “Nilsson.” Her passport reflects the new name. She contacts SAS with her marriage certificate, and SAS updates her ticket for a small administrative fee.

 

10. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I transfer my SAS ticket to someone else?
No, SAS does not allow ticket transfers to another passenger.

Q2. What if I made a typo in my name?
Minor corrections are allowed. Contact SAS or your travel agency as soon as possible.

Q3. How much does a name correction cost?
It may be free if done quickly; otherwise, expect a service fee of €50–€70.

Q4. Do I need to include middle names?
SAS recommends matching your passport exactly, including middle names if present.

Q5. Can I correct my name at the airport?
It is not advisable. Always correct it in advance through customer service.

 

11. Step-by-Step Checklist

1. Verify ticket details after booking.
2. Identify whether it’s a correction or attempted transfer.
3. Contact SAS or your travel agency immediately.
4. Provide booking reference and ID.
5. Pay any applicable fees.
6. Confirm the updated ticket matches your passport.

 

12. Conclusion

So, does Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) allow ticket name change or transfer? The answer is clear:

• Name corrections for typos, spelling mistakes, or legal changes are allowed and relatively straightforward.
• Name transfers—changing the ticket to another passenger—are strictly prohibited under SAS’s non-transferability rule.

The best way to avoid problems is to book carefully, double-check details, and correct errors as soon as they are discovered. If you follow the proper procedure and act quickly, correcting a name on a SAS ticket is manageable and ensures you’ll travel without disruption.

Ultimately, SAS’s policy reflects the wider airline industry standard: tickets belong to the named passenger, not to anyone else. While this may limit flexibility, it also ensures consistency, security, and fairness in the ticketing system.