Name Mismatch on Flight Ticket
Limited
Minor spelling errors (1-2 characters) are usually accepted with supporting ID. Major differences require ticket correction before travel.
Quick answer
Airlines load the name from your booking into immigration, security, and baggage databases. When that name fails to match the ID, the system flags you, the counter staff panic, and you risk a denied boarding. Fixing it with a short phone call is far cheaper than buying a new ticket later.
Domestic Indian flights are kinder: most carriers accept small spelling slips if you show Aadhaar or PAN proving itâs you. International routes are strict because visas, Advance Passenger Information (API), and watchlists rely on exact spelling.
Play safe: match your travel document when you book. If your passport says âPRIYA LAKSHMI IYERâ, write it that way even if friends call you Priya Iyer on Instagram.
When you spot the typo
- âScreenshot the booking confirmation so you have evidence of the error timing.
- âContact the airline via call/chat and ask for a name correction case ID.
- âEmail a photo of the ID showing the correct spelling so they can update the PNR.
Documents to carry
- âGovernment ID that matches the corrected spelling.
- âMarriage certificate or gazette proof if you recently changed surnames.
- âPrinted airline acknowledgement of the correction (or updated e-ticket).
Common mismatch scenarios
| Issue | Airline reaction | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Missing middle name | Usually allowed on domestic flights | Carry ID + request agent to add SSR note |
| Nickname instead of passport name | Likely denied | Reissue ticket with legal name |
| Spelling error 2+ letters | Manual approval required | Submit correction request 24h before departure |
Do this
- â Book using the exact spelling on the ID you plan to use at the airport.
- â Check every passengerâs name before hitting Payâespecially for group trips.
- â Save the airline chat/email transcript approving your correction.
Avoid this
- â ď¸ Donât assume you can swap tickets between family membersâDGCA forbids transfers.
- â ď¸ Avoid reaching the airport hoping the supervisor will âadjustâ it; they rarely can.
- â ď¸ Never edit the PDF yourself; staff can see metadata and will refuse the altered document.
FAQ
Q. Are middle names compulsory?
Not for most domestic flights, but if your passport shows a middle name and you are flying internationally, include it. Immigration entry forms insist on matching the machine-readable line, so leaving it out can trigger manual vetting.
Q. Can I correct the name at the airport counter?
Only if the airline has that facility and seats are available. Counters prioritise check-in, so they may ask you to call customer support anyway. Handle it online/phone before you leave home.
Q. What about initials?
If your ID uses initials (common in South India), make sure the ticket copies the same format. Writing the expanded name while your ID shows initials can confuse security.
Tips before you fly
- âď¸ Save passenger profiles in airline apps with verified IDs so auto-fill reduces typos.
- âď¸ For visa applications, use the same spelling as the passport and airline booking to avoid mismatched paperwork.
- âď¸ If you changed your name, carry photocopies of old IDs to show the linkage quickly.
Related YourTravelGuide guides
Official references
India DGCA guidelines â simplified
Verified on: 5 Dec 2025
Disclaimer: Aviation and security rules change frequently. Always confirm with your airline, airport help desk, or CISF officers before you travel.