Delta Airlines Name Correction Policy: Fix Name Errors Without Stress

Booking a flight is exciting—until you realize there’s a typo in your name. Whether it’s a misspelled letter, a reversed name, or a missing middle name, even the smallest mistake can turn into a travel nightmare. Fortunately, the Delta Airlines name correction policy makes it possible to fix errors on your ticket so you can fly without worry.

This blog explains how Delta handles name corrections, what types of changes are allowed, what documentation you might need, and how to avoid fees or delays. If you're dealing with a name issue on your reservation, read on for everything you need to know.

Why Name Accuracy Matters When Flying

Before diving into the policy itself, it’s important to understand why name accuracy is such a big deal in air travel. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and international regulations require that the name on your boarding pass exactly match your government-issued ID or passport. Even a one-letter difference can cause delays—or prevent you from boarding altogether.

That’s where the Delta Airlines name correction policy comes in. It gives passengers a way to fix mistakes without having to cancel and rebook the entire flight. But not all corrections are treated equally, so it’s important to know what’s considered minor and what counts as a major change.

What Does the Delta Airlines Name Correction Policy Allow?

Delta divides name changes into two categories: minor corrections and major corrections. The process and requirements vary depending on which type of correction you need.

Minor Name Corrections

Minor corrections are small edits that don’t change who is traveling. These are usually allowed without needing to reissue the ticket. Examples include:

• Fixing a spelling error (e.g., “Jhn” to “John”)

• Adding or correcting a middle name or initial

• Reversing first and last names

• Removing a duplicate character

• Correcting a typo in one or two letters

Delta typically allows these fixes as long as the corrected name still clearly matches the traveler’s ID.

Major Name Corrections

A major correction involves more substantial changes, such as:

• Changing your name after marriage or divorce

• Updating your name due to a legal name change

• Fixing multiple errors that alter your identity

• Correcting an entire first or last name

These types of changes often require you to provide documentation. In some cases, the ticket might need to be reissued, and you may have to pay a fee or fare difference.

How to Request a Name Correction with Delta Airlines

If you find an error on your ticket, take action as soon as possible. The Delta Airlines name correction policy encourages travelers to address name issues early to avoid extra fees or last-minute problems at the airport.

Here’s how you can request a name correction:

1. Contact Delta Customer Support

The easiest way to fix a name is to call Delta directly. Their customer service team can look up your booking and help determine what kind of correction is needed. Be sure to have your confirmation number, travel dates, and personal identification ready when you call.

2. Use the Delta Website (for Some Corrections)

In limited cases, you may be able to fix simple spelling errors through Delta’s website or mobile app. Log in to your SkyMiles account or use your ticket confirmation number to manage your booking. If the option is available, you’ll see an “Edit Passenger Information” section.

3. Work Through a Travel Agent

If you booked through a third-party travel agency or website, you may need to contact them to handle the correction. Delta often requires changes to go through the original point of sale, especially for tickets purchased through a consolidator or travel site.

4. Visit the Airport Ticket Counter

If your flight is coming up soon and you notice an error, you can go to a Delta counter at the airport. The staff may be able to help—especially for minor corrections. But don’t wait until the last minute. Some changes can’t be done right before boarding.

What Documents Might Be Required?

For major name corrections, Delta may require legal documents to verify your identity and the reason for the name change. These can include:

• A government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or passport)

• A marriage certificate

• A divorce decree

• A court-issued name change document

Always make sure the corrected name matches your ID exactly, especially if you're flying internationally. Border control agents are strict about name consistency on tickets and travel documents.

Are There Any Fees for Name Corrections?

Delta’s policy on fees depends on the type of correction and when you make the request. Here’s what to expect:

For Minor Corrections:

• Often free if the correction is made within 24 hours of booking

• A service fee may apply after 24 hours or if the ticket has already been issued

• Fees typically range between $75 and $150, depending on the route and ticket type

For Major Corrections:

• You may need to cancel and rebook if the change is too extensive

• Additional charges may include:

  • Ticket reissue fees

  • Fare difference

  • Service charges if done through a travel agent

If your booking includes a codeshare or partner airline, Delta may need to coordinate with the other carrier, which can also affect the cost.

Time-Sensitive Name Corrections: The 24-Hour Rule

Delta follows a 24-hour risk-free cancellation policy, which also applies to name corrections in many cases. If you spot an error within 24 hours of booking, you can:

• Cancel the ticket and rebook it with the correct name

• Ask customer support to make the correction without penalty

This is your best chance to fix a name without paying extra—so act fast!

What You Can’t Do Under the Policy

While the Delta Airlines name correction policy is fairly flexible, it has some restrictions. Here’s what you cannot do:

• Transfer a ticket to another person. Name changes are not allowed if they result in a different traveler.

• Make multiple corrections on the same ticket. Frequent changes can trigger suspicion and may not be permitted.

• Bypass fare rules by attempting a name correction when you’re actually trying to resell a ticket.

Delta reserves the right to deny name changes if it suspects fraud or abuse.

Delta Name Corrections for International Travel

For international flights, correcting a name takes extra caution:

• Names must match your passport exactly

• Travel visas (if required) must also reflect the corrected name

• Corrections involving partner airlines (e.g., Air France, KLM, Virgin Atlantic) may require joint approval

• Documentation is almost always required for major corrections

Give yourself at least 72 hours before departure to request international corrections, as these can take longer to process.

Tips to Avoid Name Mistakes on Your Booking

A small error can cause big problems when flying. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Double-check your name before hitting “Confirm” on your booking

• Use your full legal name as it appears on your ID or passport

• Avoid nicknames, abbreviations, or initials unless they’re on your ID

• If you recently changed your name, travel with both your old and new IDs (plus supporting documents)

Being careful at the time of booking can save you from costly and stressful name corrections later.

Final Thoughts

The Delta Airlines name correction policy provides a helpful way for travelers to fix name-related mistakes and avoid travel disruptions. Whether it’s a simple typo or a legal name update, Delta offers several options to resolve the issue—often without the need to rebook or cancel your flight.