Mistakes happen—even when booking an important flight. If you’ve made a typo or need to update the name on your ticket, don’t panic. Lufthansa Airlines understands that such errors are common and offers a structured name change policy to help passengers travel without disruptions. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the Lufthansa Airlines Name Change Policy, what types of changes are allowed, how to make them, possible fees, and key tips to ensure a smooth process.
Why Name Accuracy Is Important
Before diving into the policy, it’s essential to understand why name accuracy matters. The name on your airline ticket must match the name on your government-issued ID or passport. Security regulations require this match, and even a small error (like a missing letter or misplaced initial) could prevent you from boarding your flight.
This is where Lufthansa’s name correction and change rules come in—designed to support travelers while upholding legal and security standards.
What Is the Lufthansa Airlines Name Change Policy?
The Lufthansa Airlines Name Change Policy allows passengers to correct or update their names under certain conditions. The policy applies differently depending on whether you're correcting a typo or requesting a more substantial change due to legal reasons.
Here’s how Lufthansa classifies name-related changes:
- Name Corrections
These involve minor adjustments that do not change the traveler’s identity, such as:
- Spelling mistakes (e.g., "Jonh" instead of "John")
- Missing middle names or initials
- Typing errors or character swaps
These corrections are usually simple to fix and, in many cases, do not require a new ticket.
- Legal Name Changes
These refer to official updates such as:
- Name changes after marriage or divorce
- Updates due to gender transition
- Name changes via court order or government authorization
In these cases, Lufthansa may allow changes if official documentation is provided, such as:
- Marriage certificates
- Divorce decrees
- Legal name change orders
- Updated passport or national ID
- Name Transfers (Not Allowed)
Transferring a ticket to an entirely different passenger is not permitted under Lufthansa’s rules. You cannot sell or gift your ticket to someone else, even if you can no longer travel.
Eligibility for a Name Change or Correction
To be eligible for a name correction or change, your flight booking must meet certain criteria:
- The ticket must be issued by Lufthansa (ticket numbers starting with 220).
- The flight should be operated by Lufthansa, not a codeshare or partner airline (like United, Swiss, or Austrian Airlines).
- The name change request must be made before check-in, preferably at least 24–48 hours before departure.
- The correction should not involve changing the identity of the traveler, unless supported by legal documentation.
How to Request a Name Change with Lufthansa
If you notice an error in your name or need to update your booking, follow these steps:
Step 1: Contact Lufthansa
Call Lufthansa customer service or reach out via their official website or mobile app+1-8557164791. Have your booking reference (PNR) and ticket number ready. You may also visit a local Lufthansa office.
Step 2: Explain the Type of Change
Let the agent know if it’s a minor typo, legal change, or spelling error. Be as specific as possible.
Step 3: Submit Supporting Documents
If your name change is due to legal reasons, submit scanned copies of official documents. Commonly accepted files include:
- Passport
- Government ID
- Marriage certificate
- Name change certificate
Step 4: Pay Applicable Fees
If the change qualifies under the free correction policy, there may be no charge. However, legal name changes and ticket reissuance may involve a fee.
Step 5: Confirm the Update
Once processed, Lufthansa will send a confirmation email with your updated booking information. Always double-check it before your travel date.
How Much Does It Cost?
Fees vary depending on the nature of the change:
- Minor corrections (up to 2-3 characters): Often free of charge, especially if reported within 24 hours of booking.
- Legal name changes: May incur a fee between $75 to $150 USD or more, depending on the fare conditions and whether reissuance is needed.
- Rebooking fees: If the correction results in fare class changes or a new ticket, the fare difference may also apply.
It’s important to note that promotional or low-cost tickets may have stricter restrictions.
What If You Booked Through a Travel Agency?
If you booked your Lufthansa flight through a third-party site like Expedia, Orbitz, or a travel agent, the process may differ slightly. In most cases, you will need to:
- Contact the agency directly for corrections.
- Allow the agency to coordinate with Lufthansa on your behalf.
- Be prepared for possible agency service fees in addition to Lufthansa’s policies.
Always review the terms and conditions of your booking at the time of purchase.
Tips to Avoid Name Change Issues
Correcting a name on a flight ticket can be time-consuming and costly. Use the following tips to avoid issues:
- Double-check your name before finalizing your booking.
- Use your full legal name as it appears on your passport or ID.
- Avoid using nicknames or initials unless they are legally part of your name.
- Act quickly if you spot an error—corrections are easier and cheaper shortly after booking.
- Keep documentation handy if a legal name change is expected around your travel time.
Conclusion
The Lufthansa Airlines Name Change Policy is designed to accommodate travelers while ensuring compliance with international identification rules. Whether you made a minor typo or need a name update due to legal reasons, Lufthansa offers a flexible, structured process to help you correct your booking.
If you find yourself in a situation where your ticket doesn’t match your ID, act fast. Contact Lufthansa customer service+1-8557164791, gather the necessary documents, and request a correction well before your departure.
Travel should be stress-free—and that starts with making sure your name is right on your ticket.
