Air travel plans can sometimes change unexpectedly, and one common issue passengers face is realizing there’s an error in the passenger’s name on a booked ticket or needing to transfer the ticket to someone else. Spirit Airlines, known for its ultra-low-cost fares and à la carte pricing model, has clear rules regarding name corrections, changes, and transfers.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through Spirit Airlines’ policy on ticket name changes, the difference between a name correction and a transfer, the associated fees, the process to request changes, and expert tips to avoid common pitfalls.
- Understanding Spirit Airlines Name Change Policy
Before discussing the details, it’s important to note that most airlines, including Spirit Airlines, do not allow a full transfer of a ticket to another person. In other words, you cannot take a ticket booked in one person’s name and transfer it entirely to a different individual.
However, Spirit Airlines does allow name corrections to fix mistakes such as typos, misspellings, or legal name changes (e.g., due to marriage or divorce).
Key Points:
- Ticket Transfer: Not permitted. Spirit tickets are non-transferable.
- Name Correction: Allowed for fixing misspellings or legal name updates.
- Legal Requirement: The name on your ticket must exactly match the name on your government-issued photo ID used for travel.
- Why Spirit Airlines Does Not Allow Full Name Transfers
Spirit Airlines prohibits ticket transfers primarily due to:
- Security Regulations – TSA and aviation laws require the name on your ticket to match your ID to prevent misuse or fraud.
- Revenue Protection – Low-cost carriers rely on keeping fares low but charging for extras; allowing transfers could lead to reselling of cheap tickets.
- Operational Consistency – Non-transferable tickets reduce confusion during check-in and boarding.
This policy is standard across most U.S. airlines, not just Spirit.
- When You Can Request a Name Correction
Spirit Airlines allows name corrections in the following scenarios:
3.1 Minor Typos or Misspellings
If your name is misspelled by a few letters, you can request a correction. For example:
- “Jonh” → “John”
- “Smiht” → “Smith”
3.2 Legal Name Change
If you legally changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or other reasons, you can update your ticket. You will need to provide legal documentation such as:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Court order
3.3 Adding/Removing Middle Name
Some passengers might need to add or remove a middle name to match their ID. Spirit allows this as long as the first and last names are correct.
- Types of Name Changes Spirit Airlines Recognizes
Spirit Airlines classifies name adjustments into two categories:
- Minor Name Corrections (Free in Many Cases)
- Fixing one or two letters
- Changing nicknames to full names (e.g., “Mike” to “Michael”)
- Adding missing letters
- Significant Name Changes (May Incur a Fee)
- Legal name changes requiring document proof
- Changing both first and last names
Note: A significant name change is not the same as a ticket transfer. Spirit will only update the name if the same person is still traveling.
- Spirit Airlines Name Correction Fees
While small spelling corrections may be free, larger changes could involve:
- Change Fee: Ranges from $0 to $120, depending on the situation.
- Fare Difference: If your ticket is reissued, you may pay the difference between your original fare and the current fare for the same itinerary.
Spirit’s exact fees vary depending on whether you make the change online, via phone, or at the airport. Online corrections are generally cheaper.
- How to Request a Name Correction with Spirit Airlines
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Gather Required Information
You will need:
- Your booking confirmation number
- The exact correction needed
- A copy of your government-issued photo ID
- Legal documents (if applicable)
Step 2: Contact Spirit Airlines
You have three options:
- Online – Log into “My Trips” on the Spirit website.
- Call Spirit Reservations – 1-855-728-3555 (U.S. customer service number).
- Airport Ticket Counter – Good for urgent changes before departure.
Step 3: Provide Documentation
Upload or present any necessary documents, especially for legal name changes.
Step 4: Confirm Updated Ticket
Always double-check your updated e-ticket to ensure the change was applied correctly.
- Time Limits for Name Changes
Spirit Airlines recommends making corrections as soon as possible after booking. Ideally:
- Minor typos: Correct immediately or at least 48 hours before departure.
- Legal changes: Complete well before your travel date to avoid boarding issues.
Last-minute changes at the airport are possible but may be subject to higher fees and longer processing times.
- Differences Between Name Correction and Name Transfer
| Feature | Name Correction | Name Transfer |
| Allowed by Spirit? | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Purpose | Fixing errors or legal updates | Changing the traveler entirely |
| Documentation Needed | Sometimes | Not applicable |
| Fee | $0–$120 | Not possible |
- Tips to Avoid Name Issues with Spirit Airlines
- Double-check details before payment: Always confirm spelling during booking.
- Use your legal name: Match your ticket to your passport or driver’s license.
- Avoid nicknames: Stick to your official government ID name.
- Book early: Gives you more time to fix mistakes.
- Keep documents ready: For legal changes, have your paperwork accessible.
- FAQs – Spirit Airlines Name Change & Transfer Policy
Q1: Can I give my Spirit Airlines ticket to someone else?
No. Tickets are non-transferable. Only the original passenger can travel.
Q2: Will Spirit Airlines let me change my entire name?
Only for legal reasons and with proper documentation.
Q3: Can I fix my name at the airport?
Yes, but it’s better to do it online or via phone to save time and fees.
Q4: How long does it take for Spirit to update my ticket?
Most corrections are processed within 24 hours, though legal name changes can take longer.
Q5: What happens if my ticket name doesn’t match my ID?
You may be denied boarding by TSA or Spirit staff.
- Real-World Example
Let’s say you booked a ticket for “Sara Jhnson” instead of “Sara Johnson.” This is a minor correction Spirit would likely update it without much hassle, possibly at no charge.
But if your legal name changed from “Sara Johnson” to “Sara Williams” after marriage, you’d need to provide your marriage certificate and ID to make the change.
- Final Thoughts
Spirit Airlines does not allow full ticket transfers to another person. However, they do permit name corrections for typos, minor spelling errors, and legal name changes. The process is straightforward, but passengers should act quickly, have the correct documentation ready, and understand any applicable fees.
By double-checking your booking details at the time of purchase and addressing errors promptly, you can avoid last-minute hassles at the airport.