Updated 2024 Turkish Airlines Name Change Policy Explained

While booking a flight, you should ensure that you have entered the correct name identical to your ID or passport. However, mistakes happen, and sometimes circumstances change. If you are flying with Turkish Airlines and need to change your name on a booking, it is essential to understand the Airline’s name change policy. The guide will help you to know the Turkish Airlines name change policy. Additionally, it will include name change fees, rules, and the process for changing a name on Turkish Airlines.

What is Turkish Airlines Name Change Policy?

The name change policy of Turkish airlines is as mentioned below.

• Eligibility for Name Change: Turkish Airlines generally does not allow changes to the passenger’s name once a ticket is issued.
• Minor Corrections: Minor corrections (e.g., spelling errors) are permitted but must be reported to the airline as soon as possible.
• Documentation Required: For minor corrections, you may need to provide supporting documents like a passport or ID to verify the correct spelling.
• Fees: If a name change is allowed, it may incur a fee. The amount varies depending on the ticket type and fare rules.
• Ticket Type: Policies may differ for promotional or non-refundable tickets. Check the fare rules of your specific ticket.
• Process: To request a name correction or change, contact Turkish Airlines’ customer service directly.
• Timing: Requests should be made well in advance of your flight date to avoid complications.
• Travel Agents: If you booked through a travel agent, contact them for assistance with name changes.

Why Might You Need to Change a Name on Turkish Airlines?

There are various reasons you might need to change a name on Turkish Airlines, including:

• Typographical Errors: Mistakes during the booking process are common. If only a simple letter is misspelled or forgotten, you may be unable to board the flight. The name should be exact, as mentioned on your ID or passport.
• Legal Name Changes: Other reasons are marriage, divorce, or other legal reasons. You should have genuine documents to support the name change. Thus, you must update your booking to reflect your new name.
• Changed Travel Companion: Sometimes, the original passenger cannot travel, and you might need to transfer the ticket to another person.

Turkish Airlines Name Change Rules & Guidelines

Some of the Turkish Airlines Name change rules are:

Name Correction Rules

Turkish Airlines is relatively lenient with minor corrections. Here are some of the fundamental rules:

• Typographical Errors: You can correct up to three characters in your first name, middle name, or last name without needing to pay a fee or provide documentation.
• Adding/Removing a Middle Name: Turkish Airlines allows passengers to add or remove a middle name or initial without much complication.
• Swapping First and Last Names: In some cases, you may have entered your first and last names in reverse. Turkish Airlines permits you to correct this without issue.

Major Name Change Rules

It is another turkish airlines name change rules.When it comes to significant name changes, Turkish Airlines has stricter guidelines:

• Should have legal documentation: If you need to change your name for legal reasons, such as a marriage or divorce, you must provide supporting documentation. Documentation like a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or a legal name change document is needed to change the name.
• Cannot Transfer the ticket: Turkish Airlines does not allow the transfer of tickets from one passenger to another. If you are willing to board the flight, you cannot have the name of another person on your ticket. The person flying should have his/her name on the ticket, and the name should match the traveler’s ID.
• One-Time Change Policy: Where a major name change is allowed, Turkish Airlines typically permits only a one-time name change per ticket.

Time-Sensitive Changes

Before Flight Check-In: Name changes or corrections should ideally be made before the flight’s check-in process begins. This can usually be done online or by contacting customer service.

Post Check-In: Name changes are usually not allowed once you check in for your flight. Therefore, it’s crucial to review your booking details well in advance.

What is Turkish Airlines Name Change Fees?

Name Correction Fees

Turkish Airlines may not charge a fee for minor corrections, especially if the changes are made within a specific time frame after booking. However, a fee may apply if the correction is requested closer to the departure date. This fee can vary depending on the route, ticket class, and when the correction is made.

Major Name Change Fees

For significant name changes, Turkish Airlines typically charges a fee. This fee can vary widely, often depending on factors such as the type of fare, the route, and the timing of the request. Here are some general guidelines:

• Domestic Flights: The name change fee is generally lower for domestic flights within Turkey than for international flights.
• International Flights: For international flights, the name change fee can be higher, especially for long-haul routes.
• Class of Service: The fee may also vary depending on whether you’re flying economy, business, or first class.
• Timing: The closer you are to your departure date, the higher the fee might be. It is advisable to change name on Turkish Airlines as soon as possible to avoid paying higher charges.

Waiving Fees

In some cases, Turkish Airlines may waive the name change fee, especially if the change is due to a legal reason and proper documentation is provided. Frequent flyers or members of Turkish Airlines’ loyalty program may also be eligible for waived or reduced fees.

How do You Change Your Name on Turkish Airlines?

Online Name Change Process

You can easily change name on Turkish Airlines website for minor corrections. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Log in to Your Account: Log in to your Turkish Airlines account using your booking reference number and last name.
• Access Your Booking: Go to the ‘Manage Booking’ section to view and modify your reservation.
• Make the Correction: You can follow the prompts to correct the name on your ticket. This process is usually straightforward and may not require additional documentation for minor corrections.
• Confirming the changes: You should review the changes after the correction. Then you should confirm the changes. You may be charged if applicable.

Contacting Customer Service

You can contact Turkish Airlines customer service directly if you cannot correct it online. Here’s how to go about it:

• Gather Documentation: Before you contact customer service, make sure that you have all the necessary documents, such as your passport, ID, and any legal documents related to the name change.
• Call Customer Service: You can contact Turkish Airlines customer service via phone or their official social media channels.
• Provide Booking Details: Be ready to provide your booking reference number, flight details, and the reason for the name change.
• Submit Documentation: Customer service may ask you to email or upload supporting documents to verify your identity and the reason for the name change.
• Pay the Fee: If applicable, the airlines will inform you about the fees that must be paid. These can typically be paid online or through a customer service representative.

Visiting a Turkish Airlines Office

You can visit a Turkish Airlines ticketing office or a partner travel agency if you prefer face-to-face interaction. This can be particularly helpful for complex name changes or requiring documentation assistance. Here’s what to expect:

• Bring Required Documents: Carry all relevant documents, including your booking reference, passport, and any legal documents supporting the name change.
• Speak to an Agent: Explain your situation to the ticketing agent, who will assist you in making the necessary changes.
• Pay the Fee: Any applicable fees can be paid directly at the office. You should ensure that you have received a receipt or confirmation of the payment.

Name Change for Group Bookings

The process may differ slightly if your booking is part of a group reservation. Contacting the group booking department or the travel agent who made the reservation is often necessary. Group bookings may have specific rules, and name changes might require the approval of all group members or the group coordinator.

Tips for Avoiding Name Change Issues

• Double-Check Your Details Before Booking: You should ensure the details are correct when booking to avoid name changes. After entering all the details, you should review them before finalizing your reservation.

• Use Loyalty Programs: Frequent flyers or members of Turkish Airlines’ loyalty program may have more flexible options for name changes. If you’re a member, check if any special conditions apply to your booking.
• Be Aware of Fare Types: Some fare types are more restrictive when it comes to changes. You should consider choosing a fare that offers greater flexibility, even if it is a bit expensive while booking your flight. Doing this will save you time and money, and changes are necessary.
• Act Quickly: You should act rapidly if you find an error or need to change your name. The earlier you make the change, the lower the fees and the easier the process.