When it comes to air travel, accuracy in passenger information is essential. One of the most common issues travelers face is a misspelled or incorrect name on their flight ticket. Lufthansa Airlines understands this and provides a structured, customer-friendly name correction policy. Whether it’s a minor typo or a legal name change, the Lufthansa Airlines Name Change Policy helps ensure that your booking details align with your travel documents.
This article offers a detailed look at Lufthansa’s name change rules, exceptions, fees, procedures, and tips to avoid issues.
Why Name Accuracy Matters
Lufthansa, like all major airlines, requires that the name on your ticket match exactly with the name on your passport or government-issued ID. If there are discrepancies, you may face boarding denials or travel delays. That’s why it’s crucial to know what types of name corrections are allowed under Lufthansa’s guidelines.
Types of Name Changes Allowed by Lufthansa
Lufthansa distinguishes between name corrections and name changes, which is important when considering whether your request will be accepted.
✅ Minor Name Corrections
Lufthansa permits minor corrections under specific conditions. These include:
Correction of typographical errors (up to 2 characters in first, middle, or last name)
Swapping of name order (e.g., from “SMITH/JOHN” to “JOHN SMITH”)
Adjustment of nicknames to legal names (e.g., changing “DAVE” to “DAVID”)
Addition or correction of missing middle names
Corrections after legal name changes due to marriage, divorce, or gender reassignment
These changes are typically accepted as long as the identity of the traveler remains the same. Documentation, such as a passport or legal certificate, is often required to verify the correction.
❌ Complete Name Changes Not Allowed
Lufthansa does not allow full name changes where the passenger identity changes. For example, transferring a ticket from “John Smith” to “Jane Doe” is strictly prohibited. If such a change is needed, the original ticket must be canceled and a new one purchased. Whether the original ticket is refundable will depend on the fare conditions.
Lufthansa Group Policy Across Airlines
Lufthansa’s policy often applies to other airlines in the Lufthansa Group, such as:
SWISS International Air Lines
Austrian Airlines
Brussels Airlines
Eurowings
However, slight variations may exist. If your itinerary involves a codeshare or partner airline, it’s important to contact customer service for clarification.
When Can You Make a Name Correction?
The timing of your request can impact both the feasibility and cost of correcting a name on a Lufthansa ticket.
Before Ticket Issuance
If the correction is made before the ticket is issued, Lufthansa usually allows changes free of charge. This applies to bookings made directly through Lufthansa or via travel agents.
After Ticket Issuance
Once the ticket has been issued, Lufthansa may charge a fee for name corrections. The exact amount depends on several factors, including:
The type of ticket (e.g., Economy Light, Business Class)
The route
The timing of the request
Whether it’s a group booking
Name Change Fees and Charges
Name correction fees with Lufthansa can vary. Below is a general guideline:
Individual bookings: Fee may range from €25 to €150 depending on route and fare rules.
Group bookings: Lufthansa charges €100 per name for changes after ticket issuance.
If your name change is due to a legal reason (e.g., marriage), Lufthansa may waive the fee if you provide supporting documentation. These requests are generally handled on a case-by-case basis.
Required Documents for Name Correction
Depending on the nature of your correction, Lufthansa may request:
A copy of your passport
Marriage certificate, in the case of a name change due to marriage
Court order or legal proof, for other legal name changes
Original booking confirmation and ticket details
Be sure to have these documents ready when you contact customer service.
How to Request a Name Change with Lufthansa
You can correct your name on a Lufthansa ticket in the following ways:
- Contact Lufthansa Customer Service
The easiest and most reliable way to request a name correction is to call Lufthansa’s customer support directly. Their trained representatives will guide you through the process and advise on applicable fees.
- Through Your Travel Agency
If you booked your ticket via a travel agency or third-party site, you will need to contact them to initiate the name change. Lufthansa will not make changes to bookings they did not issue directly.
- Online Manage Booking Tool
For minor spelling corrections, Lufthansa may allow you to edit passenger details via the “My Bookings” section on their website. However, this function is limited and not suitable for legal name changes or issued tickets.
Tips to Avoid Name Change Issues
To avoid the stress and cost of a name correction, keep the following tips in mind:
Double-check your name at the time of booking. Ensure it matches your passport exactly.
Avoid nicknames or initials, unless they appear on your travel document.
Book with your legal name, especially if you’re planning a name change due to marriage after booking.
Contact Lufthansa immediately upon discovering an error to minimize fees or complications.
Don’t delay—changes closer to departure may be harder or costlier to process.
Final Thoughts
The Lufthansa Airlines Name Change Policy is designed to accommodate passengers who need to correct minor name errors while maintaining strict security and documentation standards. Lufthansa is generally understanding when the request is legitimate and timely. However, knowing the rules and acting quickly can save you both time and money.
Remember, name changes that alter the identity of the passenger are not allowed. But if you’ve misspelled your name, swapped names by accident, or recently undergone a legal name change, Lufthansa has clear procedures in place to help you update your booking.
For assistance, it’s best to call Lufthansa’s customer service or work through your booking agent. With the right documentation and timing, you’ll be back on track for a smooth and hassle-free flight.
