How Do I Correct a Misspelled Name on Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) Ticket?

Travel plans can be exciting, but even a small mistake such as a misspelled name on your flight ticket can create unnecessary stress. Since airlines require that the name on the ticket match the passenger’s travel documents exactly, even a minor spelling error could potentially cause problems during check-in, at security, or when boarding. If you are flying with Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), you may be wondering how to correct such an error and whether you will be charged a fee.

This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about correcting a misspelled name on a Scandinavian Airlines ticket. We will explore the airline’s policy, the difference between minor corrections and full name changes, the step-by-step process to request a correction, applicable fees, and practical tips to avoid issues. By the end, you will have a clear roadmap on how to fix your SAS ticket and travel smoothly without worry.

 

1. Why Name Accuracy Matters on SAS Tickets

Airline tickets are non-transferable contracts that tie a passenger’s name to their booking. Security protocols, immigration laws, and airline regulations require the name on the boarding pass to match the government-issued ID or passport exactly.

For SAS, this means:

• Minor differences such as missing diacritical marks (e.g., Å becoming A) may not always cause an issue, but consistency is strongly recommended.
• Major errors such as missing letters, reversed first and last names, or using a nickname instead of the legal name must be corrected, as they can lead to denied boarding.

SAS and most major airlines enforce strict name-matching rules because they help prevent ticket fraud and ensure compliance with international security standards.

2. SAS Policy on Name Corrections vs. Name Changes

It’s important to understand how SAS distinguishes between a name correction and a name change:

Name Corrections

• Applies to small errors such as typos, an extra letter, or a missing middle name.
• SAS typically allows corrections for free or with a small service fee, depending on how the ticket was booked.
• These corrections can usually be handled through customer service or via the agency that issued the ticket.

Name Changes

• Refers to changing the ticket to another person’s name or replacing the passenger entirely.
• SAS does not allow name changes in most cases, since tickets are personal and non-transferable.
• Exceptions may apply if the name change results from a legal situation (e.g., marriage or court order), but proof is required.

This distinction is crucial: if your issue is just a typo, it falls under correction; if you are trying to give the ticket to someone else, SAS will deny the request.

 

3. Common Mistakes That Require Name Correction

Some of the most frequent name errors SAS passengers encounter include:

1. Typographical mistakes – e.g., Johan typed as John.
2. Letter inversion – e.g., Katri written as Karit.
3. Omitted middle name – especially if the passport includes it.
4. Diacritical character differences – e.g., Ö vs. O.
5. Swapped first and last names – often when booking through third-party sites.
6. Nickname vs. legal name – e.g., Mike instead of Michael.

In most cases, SAS can amend these mistakes without issue, as long as you follow the right procedure.

4. How to Correct a Misspelled Name on an SAS Ticket

Correcting a name on your SAS ticket involves a few straightforward steps. The process depends on where and how you booked your flight.

Step 1: Identify the Type of Error

• If it’s a minor typo, you likely qualify for a quick correction.
• If it’s a full name change, SAS will probably reject it unless you can provide legal documentation.

Step 2: Check Where You Booked the Ticket

• Directly with SAS (website, app, call center): You must contact SAS customer service directly.
• Through a travel agency or online booking site: You must request the correction from the agency, which will coordinate with SAS.

Step 3: Contact SAS Customer Service

You can reach SAS customer service via:

• Phone (regional numbers are available on SAS’s website).
• Online chat.
• Social media (for basic inquiries, though corrections usually require secure communication).

When you contact them, provide:

• Booking reference (PNR).
• Full name as it appears on the ticket.
• Correct name as per your passport.
• Supporting documents (passport copy, ID, or legal name-change certificate if applicable).

Step 4: Confirm the Correction and Pay Fees if Applicable

• SAS will process the request and either update the ticket or reissue it.
• If fees apply, you will need to pay before the correction is finalized.

Step 5: Double-Check Your New Itinerary

Always review the corrected e-ticket to ensure the name now matches your travel documents exactly.

 

5. Fees for Name Corrections on SAS

SAS’s policy on name correction fees can vary based on:

• Type of ticket (Economy, Plus, Business).
• Route (domestic, European, or intercontinental).
• Booking channel (SAS website, call center, or travel agency).

Typical scenarios include:

• Minor typo correction: Often free if done within 24 hours of booking.
• Corrections after 24 hours: May incur a service fee (around €50–€70 in many cases, though this may vary).
• Name corrections for agency bookings: The agency may add its own handling fee on top of SAS’s policy.
• Legal name changes: Usually accepted but may involve a reissue fee if the ticket must be revalidated.

It is always best to confirm the exact fee with SAS at the time of the request.

 

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

If you ignore a misspelled name, you could face serious consequences at the airport:

• Denied check-in or boarding: Airline staff may refuse to issue a boarding pass.
• Problems at security checkpoints: Authorities compare your boarding pass with your passport; mismatches can cause delays.
• Extra costs: You might be forced to buy a new last-minute ticket if the error is discovered too late.

In short, failing to correct your name can cost far more than a correction fee.

 

7. Tips to Avoid Name Errors on SAS Tickets

1. Book directly with SAS – reduces risk of data entry errors from third-party agents.
2. Use your passport as reference – always copy the name exactly as it appears.
3. Double-check confirmation emails – spot errors early when they’re easiest to fix.
4. Avoid nicknames – only use the official, legal name.
5. Correct immediately – if you notice an error, contact SAS within 24 hours.

 

8. Special Considerations

Legal Name Changes (Marriage, Divorce, Court Orders)

If your passport has a different name due to a recent legal change, SAS can update your ticket. You must provide official documentation (marriage certificate, court decree, or new passport).

SAS EuroBonus Award Tickets

For award flights booked with EuroBonus points, name corrections must go through SAS customer service. Fees may still apply depending on the case.

Group Bookings

For group reservations, corrections often need to be handled by the SAS Group Sales department or the travel agency that made the booking.

 

9. Practical Example

Imagine you booked a flight from Copenhagen to New York, and your name was entered as Anders Johansen instead of Anders Johansson. The single missing “s” may seem small, but it does not exactly match your passport.

In this situation:

• Log in to your SAS account or call customer service immediately.
• Provide your booking number and explain the mistake.
• SAS will classify this as a typo correction.
• They may correct it for free if caught early, or charge a small fee (depending on when and where you booked).
• Once corrected, you will receive an updated e-ticket.

This quick action prevents potential denial of boarding at the airport.

 

10. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I transfer my SAS ticket to someone else by changing the name?
No, SAS does not allow transferring tickets to another person. Name changes are restricted to genuine corrections only.

Q2. How long does a correction take?
Minor corrections are usually processed within a few hours. Legal name changes may take longer since documentation needs to be verified.

Q3. Can I correct my name at the airport?
It’s risky to wait until the airport. While some corrections might be possible at an SAS counter, staff may refuse, leaving you stranded. Always correct mistakes before your travel date.

Q4. Do I need to include my middle name on the ticket?
Yes, if your passport includes it. SAS recommends booking with the full legal name as shown in your travel documents.

Q5. What if my travel agency refuses to help?
If you booked through a third party, they control the booking. Insist on assistance, or ask them to liaise directly with SAS.

 

11. Step-by-Step Checklist

1. Review your ticket as soon as you book.
2. Compare the name with your passport.
3. Identify if it’s a typo or a legal name issue.
4. Contact SAS (or your travel agency) immediately.
5. Provide booking reference, correct name, and passport copy.
6. Confirm fees and pay if necessary.
7. Receive updated e-ticket and verify correctness.

12. Conclusion

Correcting a misspelled name on a Scandinavian Airlines ticket is a manageable process if you act promptly. SAS makes a clear distinction between minor corrections (typos, spelling errors, character differences) and full name changes (transferring a ticket or legal name changes). Minor corrections are usually simple, sometimes free, or may involve a modest fee, while full name changes are heavily restricted.

The key to avoiding problems is acting early. Check your booking confirmation right after purchase, ensure it matches your passport, and contact SAS customer service immediately if there’s any mistake. By following the correct procedure, you can save yourself stress, unnecessary expenses, and the risk of denied boarding.

Travel should be about enjoying the journey not worrying about a single letter. With SAS’s name correction policy and the right preparation, you can rest assured your ticket will get you where you need to go.