Can I Give My Airline Ticket To Someone Else? Transfer Rules And Alternatives Explained [Updated On: September 2025]

Most airlines do not allow airline ticket transfers. American Airlines permits name changes and ticket cancellations but may charge fees. If you cancel a ticket, you may be eligible to transfer it for a fee of up to $130. Always check the specific airline policies regarding non-transferable tickets and any related costs.

Some airlines allow changes to the traveler’s name for a fee, but this option is not universally available. Each airline has different rules regarding name changes, and fees can vary significantly. Always check your airline’s specific terms and conditions for the most accurate information.

If transferring a ticket is not possible, consider alternatives. You may be able to cancel your ticket and rebook a new one in the intended passenger’s name. However, this option may involve losing the original ticket cost, depending on the airline’s cancellation policies. In certain cases, offering the current passenger a travel voucher may also be feasible.

Understanding these rules can save you time and money. As airline policies change frequently, always contact the airline for the latest information before making any decisions. Now, let’s explore the specifics of name change fees and policies for various airlines.

Table of Contents

Can I Transfer My Airline Ticket to Another Person?

No, you typically cannot transfer your airline ticket to another person. Each airline has its specific policies regarding ticket transfers.

Airlines impose strict rules on ticket transferability to prevent fraud and maintain security. Most tickets are non-transferable, meaning only the person who purchased the ticket can use it. Some airlines may offer limited exceptions or allow name changes for a fee. These rules are in place to ensure that passenger names match the tickets, which is crucial for safety and security reasons. Always check with your airline for their specific policies regarding ticket transfers.

What Are the General Rules for Transferring Airline Tickets?

The general rules for transferring airline tickets vary by airline but typically involve restrictions regarding name changes, fees, and eligibility.

Name Change Restrictions
Fees Associated with Transfers
Eligibility Criteria for Transfers
Airlines’ Transfer Policies Variability
Alternative Options to Transfer Tickets

Each point below addresses the general rules for transferring airline tickets in detail.

Name Change Restrictions: Name change restrictions apply to most airlines and generally only allow minor corrections, such as typographical errors. Major changes, such as transferring the ticket to another person, are often prohibited. Airlines typically require the original passenger to travel unless specific policies allow otherwise.
Fees Associated with Transfers: Fees are often charged for any modifications, including ticket transfers, depending on airline policies. These fees can vary significantly. For instance, some airlines may charge a flat fee while others might apply a percentage of the ticket price. Travelers should check their airline’s specific policies for accurate cost expectations.
Eligibility Criteria for Transfers: Not all tickets are eligible for transfer. Typically, promotional or discounted fares have stricter rules, while higher fare classes might offer more flexibility. Some airlines allow transfers if specific conditions are met, such as advance notice or contacting customer service proactively.
Airlines’ Transfer Policies Variability: Transfer policies differ among airlines. Major carriers like Delta, United, and American Airlines have distinct rules. For example, Southwest Airlines does not permit ticket transfers but allows changes free of charge, while others may have stringent restrictions. Understanding these nuances can impact travel plans significantly.
Alternative Options to Transfer Tickets: When a transfer is not possible, several alternatives exist. For instance, airlines may allow the original purchaser a refund or credit towards future travel. Additionally, some air travel insurance policies cover ticket cancellations, allowing for reimbursement under specific circumstances.

Understanding these general rules and their nuances can help travelers navigate the complexities of airline ticket transfers more effectively.

Which Airlines Allow Ticket Transfers?

The airlines that allow ticket transfers are limited and generally impose certain conditions. Key airlines include:

Southwest Airlines
United Airlines
JetBlue Airways
British Airways
Alaska Airlines

Keep in mind that rules about ticket transfers can differ widely among airlines. The evolving nature of airline policies can make discussions around ticket transfers complex.

Southwest Airlines:
Southwest Airlines allows ticket transfers without any major fees. Customers can transfer their travel funds to another person if they cannot use the ticket. The policy provides flexibility and is user-friendly.
United Airlines:
United Airlines does not allow straightforward transfer of tickets. However, passengers with a refundable ticket can request a refund and then purchase a new ticket for someone else. This process can be complicated and comes with a cost.
JetBlue Airways:
JetBlue allows ticket changes but does not officially permit ticket transfers. A JetBlue ticket owner can cancel their flight for a credit but cannot directly transfer the ticket to another person. They must use JetBlue’s policies for cancellations and rebook flights.
British Airways:
British Airways does not generally allow ticket transfers. Tickets are non-transferable due to security and identification reasons. Passengers may change names on a ticket for a fee, but this is limited to certain circumstances.
Alaska Airlines:
Alaska Airlines has restrictions on ticket transfers similar to British Airways. They do not allow ticket transfers, but customers with a refundable fare can retrieve their funds. The airline emphasizes that tickets are tied to the original passengers for security reasons.

Overall, while these airlines have different stances on ticket transfers, travelers must thoroughly read their specific policies and consider fees that may apply. Understanding each airline’s rules is important for making informed travel decisions.

Can I Transfer My Delta Flight to Someone Else?

No, you generally cannot transfer your Delta flight to someone else. Delta Airlines’ policy prohibits the transfer of tickets to another person.

Airlines have strict policies regarding ticket ownership to prevent fraud and misuse. When you purchase a ticket, it is associated with your name and personal information. This helps airlines manage security and compliance with regulations. Additionally, changes to ticket names can lead to complications in identity validation during check-in. If you cannot fly, the best option is to check Delta’s policies on ticket changes, cancellations, or credits for future travel.

Can I Transfer My United Airlines Ticket to Another Person?

No, you generally cannot transfer your United Airlines ticket to another person. United Airlines has strict rules regarding ticket transfers.

United Airlines typically prohibits transferring tickets due to security and identification policies. The airline requires that tickets match the name of the person traveling. This policy helps maintain the integrity of flight security and ensures accurate passenger identification during travel. If a passenger cannot use their ticket, they usually must cancel it and either receive a travel credit or rebook it for themselves later. This approach helps the airline manage capacity and ensures ticket validity.

What Are the Policies for Southwest, American, and Spirit Airlines?

The policies for Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, and Spirit Airlines vary across several categories, including cancellations, changes, fees, and baggage allowances.

Cancellation Policies
Change Policies
Fees and Charges
Baggage Allowances
Customer Service Approaches

Each airline adopts unique strategies and practices in these areas. Understanding these differences can help travelers make informed decisions based on their needs and preferences.

Cancellation Policies:
Cancellation policies dictate how and when travelers can cancel their flights. Southwest Airlines offers a flexible policy that allows cancellations without a fee, with a refund issued to the original payment method. American Airlines has different tiers: basic economy fares typically cannot be canceled for a refund, while higher fare classes allow for cancellations with fees depending on the ticket type. Spirit Airlines generally offers lower fares but tends to have stricter cancellation policies, often leading to non-refundable tickets or high fees for changes.
Change Policies:
Change policies inform customers about altering their flight itineraries. Southwest Airlines allows unlimited changes without fees, providing credit toward future travel if the new fare is lower. American Airlines charges a fee for changes on certain fare types but offers free changes for business and first-class tickets. Spirit Airlines has fees for changing flights, making it less flexible compared to the other two airlines.
Fees and Charges:
Fees and charges can significantly affect trip costs. Southwest Airlines doesn’t impose fees for checked bags; passengers can check two bags for free. American Airlines permits one free carry-on but charges for checked bags on basic economy tickets. Spirit Airlines has a reputation for low-ticket prices but adds numerous fees for services that may be standard elsewhere, such as carry-on baggage and seat selection.
Baggage Allowances:
Baggage allowances indicate how much luggage travelers can take without incurring extra costs. Southwest Airlines permits travelers to check two bags for free, accommodating a more family-friendly approach. American Airlines offers one carry-on and one personal item for free but charges for checked bags on lower fare classes. Spirit Airlines stands out with its “Bare Fare,” which only includes a personal item; all other baggage incurs additional charges, impacting budget-conscious travelers.
Customer Service Approaches:
Customer service can greatly influence travelers’ experiences. Southwest Airlines is often praised for its responsive and friendly customer service, emphasizing a no-fee policy that enhances customer loyalty. American Airlines has invested in customer service improvements in response to previous criticisms. Spirit Airlines, while known for low fares, often receives mixed reviews regarding customer support, partially due to its strict policies which can lead to frustration among passengers.

In summary, while each airline maintains distinct policies, these differences provide travelers with options that suit their preferences regarding flexibility, customer service, and costs.

How Can I Change the Name on My Airline Ticket Instead?

You can change the name on your airline ticket by contacting the airline directly, following their specific procedures, and paying any applicable fees for the name change. Airlines typically have different policies regarding name changes, so it’s important to understand their rules.

Contact the airline: Reach out to the airline’s customer service as soon as you realize the need for a name change. Each airline has its process for making these changes.
Check the name change policy: Review the specific airline’s policy on name changes. Some airlines allow minor corrections, while others may only permit full name changes. For instance, airlines like Delta typically offer name corrections free of charge for minor errors, such as fixing a typo.
Provide necessary documentation: Be prepared to provide your booking reference, personal identification, and any other documents that may be required by the airline. This information helps verify your identity and supports the change request.
Pay the fee: Be aware that many airlines charge a fee for name changes. This fee can vary widely, ranging from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the airline and the specific circumstances.
Confirm the change: Once the change is processed, ensure you receive an updated itinerary. Confirm that the name is correct and matches your identification that you will present at the airport.

By following these steps, you can successfully navigate the process of changing the name on your airline ticket. Always check the airline’s website for the most current policies and procedures.

What Are the Costs Associated with Changing a Ticket Name?

The costs associated with changing a ticket name can vary significantly based on the airline’s policies and the ticket type. These costs may include change fees, fare differences, and additional taxes.

Change fees
Fare differences
Tax implications
Airline-specific policies
Type of ticket (refundable vs. non-refundable)
Time of change (last-minute vs. advance)

Understanding the financial implications of changing a ticket name is crucial for travelers. Here’s a detailed look at each of the potential costs associated with this process.

Change Fees:
Change fees refer to charges imposed by airlines for altering the name on a ticket. These fees can range from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the airline and fare class. For instance, low-cost carriers often charge higher fees compared to traditional airlines. According to a 2022 survey by Airlines for America, over 60% of airlines impose change fees, making it an essential factor for travelers to consider.
Fare Differences:
Fare differences occur when the new name holder’s ticket costs more than the original ticket price. This difference must be paid by the person requesting the name change. For example, if the original ticket was purchased at a discount and the new ticket price has increased due to demand, the traveler must pay the additional cost. A case study by Skyscanner in 2021 indicated that fare differences can sometimes exceed change fees, impacting the total cost of the change.
Tax Implications:
Tax implications often arise when changing ticket names, as airline tickets include certain taxes and fees. These taxes may change based on the duration of the trip or the destination. For example, taxes for international flights can vary significantly, potentially increasing the costs owed during a name change. The U.S. Department of Transportation indicates that some taxes may be refundable if the name change is associated with a cancellation rather than a transfer.
Airline-Specific Policies:
Airline-specific policies regarding name changes can differ greatly. Some airlines may allow free name changes, while others strictly prohibit them. It is vital for travelers to familiarize themselves with the airline’s rules to avoid unnecessary fees. For example, Southwest Airlines allows for some flexibility in changing ticket names without fees under certain conditions.
Type of Ticket (Refundable vs. Non-Refundable):
The type of ticket significantly affects name change costs. Refundable tickets generally offer more flexibility to make changes, including name adjustments, with little to no fees. Conversely, non-refundable tickets often come with stringent policies that may result in higher fees. A report by the International Air Transport Association in 2021 noted that changes to non-refundable tickets typically incur more extensive penalties.
Time of Change (Last-Minute vs. Advance):
The timing of the name change request matters. Making changes well in advance can often result in lower fees compared to last-minute requests. Airlines are often less flexible as the departure date approaches, which can lead to increased costs. A survey by Hopper in 2020 revealed that last-minute changes could incur fees up to 50% higher than those made weeks in advance.

In conclusion, changing a ticket name can incur various costs, including change fees, fare differences, tax implications, airline-specific policies, ticket types, and timing of the change. Understanding these factors can help travelers make informed decisions and potentially save money.

What Are the Alternatives to Transferring an Airline Ticket?

The alternatives to transferring an airline ticket include several options that passengers can consider.

Changing the Ticket Name
Cancellation and Refund
Price Adjustment and Rebooking
Airline Credit or Voucher
Mileage Redemption for Future Flights

The above alternatives provide varied approaches to managing an airline ticket without direct transfer. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, depending on circumstances and airline policies.

Changing the Ticket Name:
Changing the ticket name allows the original passenger to modify the booking to reflect a new traveler’s name. Some airlines permit this change for a fee. For example, Delta Airlines allows name changes under certain conditions. However, other airlines may require the passenger to cancel and rebook instead, thereby negating this option.
Cancellation and Refund:
Cancellation and refund involve canceling the ticket altogether and requesting a refund, if eligible. Many airlines offer a full refund for flexible tickets or a portion refund for non-refundable tickets. Passengers should review individual airline policies before proceeding. According to a 2021 report from the U.S. Department of Transportation, over 70% of travelers with flexible tickets received timely refunds.
Price Adjustment and Rebooking:
Price adjustment allows passengers to cancel a current flight and book another at a different price. If the new ticket price is lower, the airline may offer a credit for the difference. Conversely, if the new flight is more expensive, the passenger will need to pay the additional amount. Each airline has specific policies around price adjustments.
Airline Credit or Voucher:
Airlines sometimes provide credits or vouchers for future travel after a ticket is canceled. These credits can be used to purchase a new ticket within a specified time frame. However, passengers should check if any restrictions apply. Many airlines have expanded their voucher policies due to increased cancellations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mileage Redemption for Future Flights:
Passengers with frequent flyer miles can redeem accumulated miles for future flights. This alternative allows for more flexibility in flight arrangements without the need to transfer tickets. For example, United Airlines allows members to use miles to book tickets for others, though certain restrictions may apply.

By exploring these alternatives, passengers can manage their travel plans efficiently while adhering to airline policies.

Can I Use My Ticket for Future Travel Instead of Transferring?

No, you typically cannot use your ticket for future travel instead of transferring it. Airlines usually have strict policies regarding ticket usage.

Airline tickets generally come with specific terms and conditions. These policies often state that tickets are non-transferable, meaning only the person whose name is on the ticket can use it. Furthermore, many tickets have expiration dates, limiting their time of use. Some airlines may allow a change of date or destination for a fee, but this varies by airline and ticket type. It’s best to check the airline’s specific policies regarding changes or future travel use.

What Should I Do If I Can’t Use My Airline Ticket?

If you can’t use your airline ticket, you have several options including rescheduling, refund applications, or ticket transfers.

Reschedule your flight.
Request a refund.
Transfer your ticket to someone else.
Use the ticket for future travel credits.
Contact the airline for specific policies.

Considering these options can be beneficial depending on your circumstances and the airline’s rules.

Reschedule Your Flight: Rescheduling your flight involves changing your travel dates for the same ticket. Most airlines allow this, especially under flexible fare conditions. However, change fees may apply. Factors influencing the option include the airline, ticket type, and fare rules.
Request a Refund: Requesting a refund means you cancel your ticket and ask for your money back. Refund policies differ by airline, and refundable tickets typically have higher costs. Non-refundable tickets usually do not qualify for a refund unless specific conditions are met, such as flight cancellations by the airline.
Transfer Your Ticket to Someone Else: Transferring your ticket allows another person to use your ticket. Some airlines permit this, while others do not. If it’s allowed, you may need to provide personal details of the new traveler to the airline.
Use the Ticket for Future Travel Credits: Using your ticket for future travel credits means the airline gives you a voucher for future use. This often applies to canceled flights or if you can’t travel anymore. Vouchers typically have expiration dates and usage restrictions.
Contact the Airline for Specific Policies: Contacting the airline is crucial. Each airline has its own specific policies regarding ticket changes. Customer service representatives can provide guidance based on your situation.

These options provide practical solutions if you find yourself unable to travel for any reason. Additionally, understanding each airline’s unique policies can aid in navigation through your options effectively.

How Can I Request a Refund or Credit for an Unused Ticket?

To request a refund or credit for an unused ticket, you should contact the airline directly and follow their specific procedures for ticket refunds or credits.

First, check the airline’s refund policy. Airlines typically have different rules regarding refunds and credits based on several factors:

Ticket Type: Refundability varies from fare to fare. Non-refundable tickets often have limited options, while refundable tickets generally allow for easier refunds.
Timeframe: Most airlines require you to request refunds within a specific timeframe after the flight date. This period can vary, so reviewing the policy is essential.
Reason for Refund: Some airlines offer refunds due to extenuating circumstances, such as illness or emergencies. Providing documentation can support your case.

Next, gather necessary information to facilitate the process. This includes:

Reservation Number: Find your unique booking reference number. This is essential for the airline to locate your reservation.
Passenger Details: Have the passenger’s full name and contact information ready.
Payment Method: Know how you made your payment, as the airline will use this information to process your refund.

Then, initiate contact with the airline. You can usually do this via:

Customer Service Phone Line: Call the airline directly. Be prepared for wait times and have all your information organized to expedite the process.
Online Request Form: Many airlines have forms on their websites for refund requests. Fill out the required details and submit them through their platform.
Email: Some airlines allow you to request refunds via email. Include all necessary information and clearly state your request.

After submitting your request, monitor the progress. Airlines might provide:

Confirmation of Request: Expect an acknowledgment email that confirms receipt of your refund request.
Processing Time: Refunds may take several weeks to process. Airlines will often provide an estimate, but delays can occur.

Finally, keep records of all communication. Document:

Dates of Interaction: Note when you made calls or sent emails.
Names of Representatives: Keep a record of whom you spoke with for future reference.
Response Times: Document how quickly they respond to your inquiries.

By following these steps, you can effectively navigate the process of requesting a refund or credit for an unused ticket.

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