Philippine Airlines Name Change Policy: Complete Guide to Rules, Fees & Process

If you’ve booked a flight and realized that your name is misspelled or needs to be updated, understanding the Philippine Airlines name change policy is essential. Whether it’s a minor correction or a legal name change due to marriage or other reasons, Philippine Airlines has a structured system to help passengers correct their names on tickets without complications. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from policy guidelines to fees and step-by-step instructions — so you can travel without delays or issues.

What is the Philippine Airlines Name Change Policy?

The Philippine Airlines name change policy allows passengers to correct or update names on flight bookings under specific conditions. However, it’s important to note that Philippine Airlines generally does not allow full name changes that result in transferring a ticket to another person. Name corrections are permitted if they are due to typographical errors or legal name changes.

Key Highlights of the Name Change Policy

To help you better understand what the policy includes, here are the main highlights:

• Minor spelling corrections are allowed (usually up to 3 characters).
• Legal name changes due to marriage, divorce, or other official reasons can be accommodated.
• Documentation is required for legal changes.
• Full name transfers to another individual are not allowed.
• Corrections must be made prior to departure.
• Fees may apply depending on the nature of the change and fare rules.

Types of Name Changes Allowed by Philippine Airlines

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the kinds of name changes permitted under the Philippine Airlines name change policy:

1. Typographical Errors

Philippine Airlines understands that minor typos can happen. Examples of acceptable corrections include:

• Swapped letters (e.g., “Jonh” instead of “John”)
• Spelling mistakes in first, middle, or last name (e.g., “Smih” to “Smith”)
• Missing middle initials or additional characters

Required Documents: Valid ID matching the corrected name
Fee: May be waived or minimal

2. Legal Name Changes

This includes name changes due to marriage, divorce, adoption, or court orders.

Examples:

• “Anna Cruz” to “Anna Dela Cruz” after marriage
• “Michael Reyes” to “Michael Tan” due to legal proceedings

Required Documents: Marriage certificate, court order, or other legal documents
Fee: Applicable based on ticket type and fare rules

Name Change Restrictions: What You Can’t Do

Understanding what is not allowed is equally important. Under the Philippine Airlines name change policy, these are prohibited:

• Transferring the ticket to another person
• Changing both first and last names without supporting legal documents
• Making multiple changes to bypass fare rules or resale

If the intention is to allow someone else to use your ticket, you will need to cancel and rebook under their name, subject to fare conditions and availability.

How to Request a Name Change on Philippine Airlines

To comply with the Philippine Airlines name change policy, follow these steps for a smooth correction process:

Step 1: Contact Customer Service

Reach out to Philippine Airlines via:

• Customer care hotline
• Email request
• Visiting a PAL ticketing office
• Chat support via the website

Step 2: Provide Booking Details

Be ready to share:

• Booking reference (PNR)
• Full name on the booking
• The corrected name
• Flight details

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

Based on the nature of the name change, submit:

• A valid ID/passport
• Legal documents (if applicable)

Step 4: Pay Any Applicable Fees

If a correction fee applies, you’ll be informed of the amount and payment options.

Step 5: Confirm Changes

Once processed, you’ll receive a confirmation email or SMS with the updated itinerary.

How Much Does It Cost to Change a Name on Philippine Airlines?

Fees vary based on:

• The type of change (minor typo vs. legal name change)
• Your fare class
• Time of request (e.g., how close it is to the departure)

Sample Fee Ranges:

• Minor correction: $0 – $50
• Legal name change: $50 – $150 (plus fare difference, if applicable)
• International flights may have higher change fees

Always confirm the latest fee structure directly with the airline before proceeding.

Timeframe: When Can You Request a Name Correction?

According to the Philippine Airlines name change policy, all name corrections must be made:

• At least 24–48 hours before the scheduled flight
• As soon as the error is noticed to avoid fees or rebooking issues

If you attempt to change the name too close to the flight or after check-in, the airline may not be able to accommodate the request.

Important Tips for a Smooth Name Correction

To avoid future issues with name corrections, follow these tips:

• Always double-check your ticket details at the time of booking.
• Use your government ID/passport name exactly as is.
• If booking through a travel agent or third-party site, inform them immediately of any mistakes.
• Save all communications with PAL regarding your name change.

Philippine Airlines Name Change Policy for Domestic vs. International Flights

While the core policy remains the same, international tickets may have:

• Stricter rules due to visa/immigration considerations
• Higher change fees
• Longer processing times

Always check your itinerary type and fare conditions before making changes.

What Happens if You Don’t Correct the Name?

Failing to fix a name discrepancy before departure could result in:

• Denied boarding
• Security clearance issues
• Immigration/visa mismatch
• Non-refundable tickets going to waste

This is why understanding and following the Philippine Airlines name change policy is crucial for hassle-free travel.

Can You Change a Name Online with Philippine Airlines?

Currently, Philippine Airlines does not allow name changes via its website. All name corrections must be handled through:

• Customer support
• Ticketing offices
• Authorized travel agents (if booked through them)

Always allow extra time for processing, especially during busy travel seasons.

Name Correction vs. Rebooking: Which Is Better?

In some cases, if the name change is extensive and not allowed, rebooking might be the only option. Here’s a quick comparison:

Choose wisely based on your specific situation.

Final Thoughts: Your Travel, Your Responsibility

Understanding the Philippine Airlines name change policy is your first step toward seamless travel. Whether it’s a small typo or a major legal change, Philippine Airlines provides a structured and fair approach to name corrections. Act promptly, provide valid documentation, and stay informed about applicable fees to avoid last-minute surprises.

Always remember — the name on your ticket must match exactly with your passport or government-issued ID, especially for international flights.

Summary: Quick Checklist for Name Change on PAL

Review your ticket name upon booking
Contact PAL immediately if there’s an error
Provide booking details and valid ID
Submit legal documents if applicable
Pay fees if required
Get confirmation before traveling

By following the above steps and understanding your rights and responsibilities, you’ll avoid delays, extra costs, and boarding issues.

If you’re planning to fly soon and noticed a name error, now’s the time to act! Philippine Airlines’ policy is traveler-friendly — as long as you follow the proper steps in time.