Traveling by air can already feel stressful, but discovering a name mistake on your airline ticket just before your trip can amplify that stress. Airlines enforce strict rules about the accuracy of passenger names on tickets because of government security regulations. Even a minor misspelling on your ticket may create check-in problems, boarding issues, or even lead to being denied entry at the airport.
If you’ve booked a flight with Hawaiian Airlines and noticed a spelling error on your ticket, it’s essential to understand the name correction policy, the steps to fix it, and what fees may apply. This guide explains everything you need to know about correcting a misspelled name on your Hawaiian Airlines ticket, from small typos to more complex corrections.
Why Accuracy in Ticket Names Is Important
Before diving into Hawaiian Airlines’ policy, its worth noting why airlines emphasize exact name matches:
- TSA Security Requirement
The name on your boarding pass must match exactly with the name on your government-issued ID or passport. Even a single misplaced letter may cause complications during the TSA security check. - Reservation Systems
Airlines use passenger name records (PNRs) that are linked to security databases. If the name doesn’t match, it can cause disruption in boarding or connecting flights. - International Travel Rules
Immigration authorities often deny entry if the travel documents don’t align perfectly with your identification. - Fraud Prevention
Airlines prevent unauthorized ticket transfers or resale by requiring accurate names.
Hawaiian Airlines Name Correction Policy
Hawaiian Airlines recognizes that mistakes happen during booking, so it has established guidelines to help passengers correct names on their tickets. However, the airline differentiates between minor corrections (typos or spelling errors) and major changes (legal name changes or transfers).
- Minor Corrections (Typos or Misspellings)
If you’ve misspelled your first name, last name, or middle name slightly, Hawaiian Airlines generally allows corrections. Examples include:
- “Jonh” instead of “John”
- “Katherin” instead of “Katherine”
- Missing or incorrect middle initial
- Reversed first and last name order
These are typically corrected without requiring a complete rebooking.
- Major Corrections
If your name has legally changed due to:
- Marriage
- Divorce
- Court order (legal name change)
Hawaiian Airlines requires documentation, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order, to process the correction.
- Prohibited Changes
Hawaiian Airlines does not allow complete ticket transfers. For example:
- You cannot change the ticket from “John Smith” to “Michael Johnson.”
- Name changes that result in a completely different passenger are not permitted.
Steps to Correct a Misspelled Name on Hawaiian Airlines Ticket
If you find an error, here’s a step-by-step approach to fix it:
Step 1: Review Your Ticket
Carefully compare the name on your e-ticket or itinerary with your government-issued ID (passport, driver’s license, etc.). Determine whether the mistake is minor (typo) or major (legal name change).
Step 2: Contact Hawaiian Airlines Immediately
The sooner you address the error, the easier it is to fix. You can reach Hawaiian Airlines through:
- Phone: Call Hawaiian Airlines Reservations at 1-800-367-5320.
- Website: Use the “Manage Flights” section on hawaiianairlines.com.
- Airport Counter: Visit the ticket desk at the airport.
When contacting customer service, provide:
- Confirmation number or ticket number
- Full correct name as it appears on your ID
- Details about the error
Step 3: Submit Documentation (if required)
For major corrections (legal name changes), submit scanned or physical copies of legal documents:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Court order
- Updated passport or driver’s license
Step 4: Pay Applicable Fees
Depending on the type of correction, Hawaiian Airlines may charge:
- No fee for minor spelling errors (if reported promptly).
- Service fee for corrections involving reissuance of the ticket.
- Fare difference if the correction requires issuing a new ticket under current prices.
Step 5: Receive Updated Confirmation
Once the correction is processed, Hawaiian Airlines will reissue your ticket with the correct name. Always double-check the updated e-ticket before traveling.
Hawaiian Airlines Name Correction Fees
Hawaiian Airlines generally tries to accommodate minor corrections at little or no cost, but fees may apply in certain circumstances:
- Minor Spelling Errors: Usually free if corrected within 24 hours of booking.
- Corrections After 24 Hours: May involve a service fee (typically $25–$50).
- Major Legal Changes: Require documentation; fees may range from $50 to $200, depending on the fare type and reissue needs.
- Third-Party Bookings: If you booked via a travel agency or online portal, you may need to contact them for corrections, and additional fees could apply.
Special Scenarios
- 24-Hour Flexible Booking Rule
If you notice a name mistake within 24 hours of booking and your flight is at least 7 days away, you can cancel and rebook the ticket without penalty. This rule applies to most Hawaiian Airlines tickets.
- Hawaiian Miles Award Tickets
If you used Hawaiian Miles to book your ticket, corrections follow the same process. However, changes must be made through Hawaiian Airlines directly—not through partner airlines.
- Codeshare or Partner Flights
If your Hawaiian Airlines ticket includes a segment operated by another airline (like Japan Airlines or JetBlue), name corrections may be more complex. You must contact Hawaiian Airlines first, but additional approval from the partner airline might be necessary.
Tips to Avoid Name Mistakes on Hawaiian Airlines Tickets
- Double-check before booking: Always confirm spelling before clicking “purchase.”
- Use the same name as ID: Enter your name exactly as it appears on your passport or driver’s license.
- Be cautious with middle names: Some systems require full middle names, while others accept initials. Match your ID format.
- Save confirmation details: Keep your booking reference handy to fix errors quickly.
- Check within 24 hours: Take advantage of the risk-free cancellation window.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I change the passenger’s name to someone else on Hawaiian Airlines?
No, Hawaiian Airlines does not allow ticket transfers to a different passenger. Only corrections to the same traveler’s name are permitted.
Q2: How long does it take for Hawaiian Airlines to correct a name?
Minor corrections can be processed instantly over the phone or online. Legal name changes requiring documentation may take 2–5 business days.
Q3: Do I need to show ID at the airport after a name correction?
Yes. Always carry your government-issued ID. Ensure the name on your corrected ticket matches your ID exactly.
Q4: What if my passport has my maiden name, but my ticket has my married name?
Your ticket and passport must match. Either update your passport or contact Hawaiian Airlines with legal documents to correct the ticket.
Q5: Can I make corrections at the airport on the day of travel?
Yes, but it’s risky. Some corrections may not be possible last-minute, and you could be denied boarding. It’s better to correct errors in advance.
Real-Life Example: Correcting a Hawaiian Airlines Ticket Name
Imagine booking a Honolulu to Los Angeles flight and accidentally entering “Micheal” instead of “Michael.” A week later, you realize the error. Here’s what happens:
- You call Hawaiian Airlines reservations and explain the mistake.
- The agent verifies your booking details and corrects the typo.
- Since it’s a minor correction, no fee applies.
- You receive an updated e-ticket instantly by email.
- On travel day, your boarding pass matches your ID, and you board without issue.
Now imagine a different scenario: you recently got married and changed your last name from “Lee” to “Kim.” Your passport reflects your new name, but your Hawaiian Airlines ticket was booked under “Lee.” In this case:
- You contact Hawaiian Airlines and explain the situation.
- You submit a copy of your marriage certificate and passport.
- The airline reissues the ticket under “Kim.”
- A small reissue fee is applied, but your corrected ticket ensures a smooth travel experience.
Conclusion
Correcting a misspelled name on a Hawaiian Airlines ticket is usually straightforward, especially if it’s a minor typo. Hawaiian Airlines understands that errors happen and provides flexible solutions, particularly if you act quickly. However, for major legal name changes, supporting documents and possible fees are required.
The golden rule is: always make sure your name on the ticket matches exactly with your government-issued ID. Doing so avoids unnecessary delays, stress at the airport, and even the risk of being denied boarding.
Whether it’s fixing a simple typo or updating your surname after a marriage, following the correct steps ensures your Hawaiian Airlines journey is smooth and worry-free.