Cheapest way to change name on long-haul flight

Chris4

Hi, my friend booked a long-haul flight under "Chris" rather than "Christopher". We've contacted the agency (Travel Trolley) and there's a pretty hefty charge for changing it.

Apparently the airline (Singapore Airlines) doesn't have control of the flights until 24 hours before departure, and someone suggested waiting until that period before changing. Has anyone ever done this?

Stevie_Palimo

Speak to the airline directly and waiting on the 24 hour window would not make any difference as the fee that they may charge would not alter, I changed a name on a ticket and that was £20.00, This was with the airline and was around 6-7 years ago.

inkwat

Some airlines do not charge for 'spelling' mistakes on tickets but will charge to change the name. You could try emphasising that it is a spelling error and not a change of name. I also heard one case where the person changed the name on a ticket without incurring fees by ringing up once per day and changing it one letter at a time but I can't say I'd advise that method.

Chris4

Stevie_Palimo wrote: »

Speak to the airline directly and waiting on the 24 hour window would not make any difference as the fee that they may charge would not alter, I changed a name on a ticket and that was £20.00, This was with the airline and was around 6-7 years ago.

inkwat wrote: »

Some airlines do not charge for 'spelling' mistakes on tickets but will charge to change the name. You could try emphasising that it is a spelling error and not a change of name.

I'm awaiting confirmation from the agent on the cost, but online I have seen figures for Travel Trolley name change at £100-£200, but that was a few years ago. A more recent post suggested £68. According to this document, Singapore Airlines instruct their Trade Partners to collect £65 in fees.

As I say, because I booked via the agent, I don't believe it's possible to change it via the airline as you've both suggested. But correct me if I'm wrong.

inkwat wrote: »

I also heard one case where the person changed the name on a ticket without incurring fees by ringing up once per day and changing it one letter at a time but I can't say I'd advise that method.

Haha thanks I'll keep that in mind!

Heliflyguy

Singapore airlines will probably refer you back to the agent as they made the booking.

As mentioned its a name correction rather than a change and the cost will be as in the terms and conditions you have with the agent.

The procedure you link to is a bit of a faff for the agent so depending on what they are quoting you it maybe slightly justified.

jpsartre

I have a friend who travels under the shortened version of his first name and has been doing so for years. He has yet to experience any problems. In fact, I can't recall ever reading of anyone that has been denied boarding for using a commonly accepted shortened version of their first name.

Mumof32k18

Hi Chris
Just wanted to know the outcome of your dilemma... As I have made same error with my partners ticket !!!128542;!!!128542;

Caz3121

Mumof32k18 wrote: »

I have made same error with my partners ticket

same airline and same agent? (answers will differ with different airlines/agents)

Mumof32k18

Yes same airline and same agency

eDicky

Mumof32k18 wrote: »

Yes same airline and same agency

And how does the name on the booking vary from the passport name? If it's just a common shortened version such as Chris for Christopher there should be no need to correct it, as jpsartre says.

Mumof32k18

Hi
I spelt husband name instead of Steve I put ateve!!!!!!!