Turkish Airlines, one of the world's most prestigious carriers, provides a comprehensive name change policy to ensure passengers can correct or update their booking information without unnecessary stress. Understanding the Turkish Airlines name change policy is crucial for travelers who encounter spelling mistakes, legal name changes, or require correction due to passport discrepancies. This guide outlines every aspect of the name change process, eligibility, charges, and the most effective ways to make changes smoothly.
Understanding the Turkish Airlines Name Change Policy
The Turkish Airlines name change policy allows passengers to make corrections to their booking details, but there are limitations and specific procedures to follow. The airline distinguishes between minor corrections and full name changes due to legal circumstances such as marriage or divorce.
Types of Name Changes Permitted
Minor Corrections: This includes typos, misspellings, or slight name discrepancies. Usually allowed up to 3 characters in the first or last name.
Legal Name Changes: For instances where the passenger’s name changes due to marriage, divorce, or other legal reasons. Supporting documents are mandatory.
Complete Name Transfers: Turkish Airlines does not permit the complete transfer of a ticket to another individual under a different name.
Eligibility Criteria for Name Corrections
To qualify for a name change on your Turkish Airlines booking, your case must meet specific criteria:
The name correction request must be made before check-in.
The ticket must be issued on Turkish Airlines stock (235).
The flight must be operated by Turkish Airlines.
You must provide legal documentation if your name change is due to a legal process.
How to Request a Name Change with Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines offers several channels for requesting a name correction:
1. Through the Official Website
You can log into the Turkish Airlines website using your booking reference or ticket number. If the system allows online modifications, minor corrections can be done easily.
2. Via Customer Service
For more complex name change scenarios, it's advisable to contact the Turkish Airlines customer service center directly. Their agents can assist with legal documentation submissions and advise on applicable fees.
3. Visiting a Turkish Airlines Sales Office
Passengers may also visit a local Turkish Airlines office with valid ID and supporting documents to request name corrections or legal changes.
4. Through Your Travel Agent
If your ticket was booked via a third-party travel agency, they may need to initiate the name change process on your behalf.
Documents Required for Name Change
Depending on the reason for your name change, the following documents may be required:
Passport or Government-Issued ID
Marriage Certificate or Divorce Decree
Legal Affidavit for Name Change
Booking Confirmation or Ticket Number
All documentation must be current, official, and valid to be accepted by Turkish Airlines.
Name Change Fees and Charges
The fees associated with name changes depend on the nature and timing of the request. While minor spelling corrections may be free or incur a nominal charge, legal name changes usually involve a reissue fee and possibly fare difference
Timeframe and Restrictions
It is essential to make any name correction or change at least 24–48 hours prior to the flight departure. Some types of changes cannot be performed at the airport and must be processed in advance.
Name Change Not Allowed in These Situations:
After check-in is completed
After boarding pass is issued
On codeshare or interline flights not operated by Turkish Airlines
Conclusion
The Turkish Airlines name change policy offers flexibility for passengers needing to correct or legally change their names, but it’s important to act quickly and follow the guidelines precisely. Whether you're fixing a small typo or updating your last name post-marriage, Turkish Airlines provides multiple avenues to help resolve your issue efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I change the name on a non-refundable Turkish Airlines ticket?
Yes, but only if the change qualifies under the Turkish Airlines name change policy. Refundability does not always restrict corrections, but fees and fare differences may apply.
How many times can I correct the name?
Only one correction per ticket is usually permitted. Further requests may be denied unless due to a new legal reason.
Is name correction allowed for Miles&Smiles bookings?
Yes, however, corrections must still follow the same policy, and it’s advised to contact the Miles&Smiles customer center directly.
