When booking a flight, many travelers are careful to select the right dates, routes, and prices, but often overlook one crucial detail: the exact spelling of the passenger’s name. For airlines, this detail is not minor at all. The name on your ticket must match the government-issued identification you present at the airport, whether that is a passport for international travel or a national ID for domestic flights. Even a small discrepancy can create big problems at check-in or immigration.
LATAM Airlines, one of the largest carriers in Latin America, understands that mistakes happen. However, its policies on name corrections are strict, designed to balance customer service with security regulations and industry standards. This article provides a detailed, step-by-step exploration of LATAM Airlines’ name correction policy, including what changes are allowed, what fees may apply, how to request corrections, and best practices to avoid issues.
Why Accurate Names Are So Important
Before diving into LATAM’s policy, it helps to understand why airlines insist on name accuracy. Several critical reasons explain this requirement:
- Security regulations
International aviation laws require airlines to submit accurate passenger manifests to immigration and security authorities. A name mismatch can raise red flags during pre-screening. - Immigration control
Border agents compare the boarding pass with the passport. If the names do not match exactly, the traveler may be denied entry. - Fraud prevention
Allowing significant name changes could open the door to reselling or transferring tickets, undermining fare rules. - Operational efficiency
Airline systems—from boarding to baggage handling—are tied to passenger records. Inaccuracies can disrupt these processes.
Because of these factors, LATAM Airlines enforces a strict but practical policy on name corrections.
LATAM Airlines’ Name Correction Policy in Overview
- Name corrections are permitted to fix minor errors that ensure the ticket matches the traveler’s official identification.
- Name changes or transfers are not permitted. A ticket cannot be transferred from one person to another under any circumstance.
- Fees may apply depending on the type of correction, timing of the request, and ticket conditions.
- Supporting documents may be required, especially in cases of legal name changes.
What Counts as a Name Correction?
LATAM defines a name correction as an adjustment that makes the ticket match the passenger’s official identification without changing the identity of the traveler. Examples include:
- Minor spelling errors
- Correcting “Jonh” to “John.”
- Fixing “Rodrigez” to “Rodriguez.”
- Swapped first and last names
- Changing “Lopez Maria” to “Maria Lopez.”
- Adding or adjusting middle names
- Adding “Alejandro” when the passport shows “Carlos Alejandro.”
- Diacritical marks and accents
- Correcting “Nunez” to “Núñez.”
- Legal updates
- Adjusting the last name after marriage, divorce, or court-ordered name change.
These corrections maintain the same passenger but align the record with official documents.
What Does Not Count as a Correction?
LATAM does not consider the following as corrections. These are prohibited and treated as attempts to transfer the ticket:
- Changing “Ana Gonzalez” to “Juan Gonzalez.”
- Replacing one traveler with another because the original passenger cannot travel.
- Substituting nicknames or informal names if they differ significantly from the passport name.
In such cases, the passenger must cancel and rebook, subject to the fare rules of the ticket.
Timing and Fees for Corrections
The cost and ease of correcting a name with LATAM depend on when you make the request and what type of fare you purchased.
- Immediately After Booking
If you spot an error right after booking, you should contact LATAM Airlines within hours. Corrections at this stage are usually the simplest and may even be free, depending on the fare.
- Days or Weeks Before Travel
Corrections made well in advance are generally possible but may involve an administrative fee. The fee amount varies by route, ticket type, and correction complexity.
- At the Airport
Corrections requested at check-in or just before departure are strongly discouraged. They often involve the highest fees and may not always be possible. In some cases, passengers may be denied boarding if the name cannot be corrected in time.
How to Request a Name Correction
Step 1: Review Your Ticket Immediately
As soon as you receive your confirmation, compare your e-ticket with your passport or ID. Detecting errors early is critical.
Step 2: Access the “Manage Your Booking” Section
Use LATAM’s website or mobile app. While some minor corrections may be possible online, many require direct assistance.
Step 3: Contact LATAM Customer Service
Call LATAM’s service center or visit a ticket office. Provide your booking reference, flight details, and the corrected name spelling.
Step 4: Provide Documentation
Be ready to provide proof of identity, such as a passport. For legal name changes, you may need to show additional documents like a marriage certificate or court order.
Step 5: Pay Any Applicable Fees
If a correction fee is required, customer service will advise you of the amount. Payment is necessary before the correction can be finalized.
Step 6: Confirm Your Updated Ticket
Once the correction is made, LATAM will issue an updated e-ticket. Double-check the details to confirm accuracy.
Required Documentation
Depending on your situation, LATAM may require the following:
- For typos or minor errors: A copy of your passport or national ID.
- For legal name changes: Official documents such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order, plus updated identification.
- For complex bookings via agencies: Proof of purchase or confirmation details from the agency.
Special Considerations for International Travel
International flights are subject to stricter security and immigration regulations. Therefore:
- Corrections on international tickets may carry higher fees.
- Documentation requirements are more stringent.
- Border control officers are less likely to accept mismatched names, making accuracy even more critical.
What Happens If You Do Not Correct a Name?
Travelers who ignore a name error risk serious consequences:
- Denied boarding at check-in if the ticket does not match the ID.
- Delays at immigration during international travel.
- Loss of ticket value if the name cannot be corrected and the passenger cannot travel.
The risks outweigh the effort and cost of correcting the mistake.
Real-Life Examples
Example 1: Minor Typo
Camila booked a flight under “Camilia.” She noticed the mistake the same day and contacted LATAM. With proof of her passport, the airline corrected the error for a small administrative fee.
Example 2: Legal Name Change
Ricardo recently divorced and reverted to his original surname. He booked his flight using his old last name but updated his passport afterward. By providing the court documents and new ID, LATAM updated his booking without issue.
Example 3: Attempted Transfer
Laura could not travel and wanted to give her ticket to her cousin. LATAM denied the request, as ticket transfers are not permitted. Laura had to cancel her ticket under fare rules, and her cousin bought a new one.
Practical Tips to Avoid Name Correction Issues
- Use your passport or ID while booking
Keep it open in front of you to avoid typos. - Avoid nicknames
Always use the full legal name as shown on your identification. - Double-check before paying
Review every detail before you confirm your booking. - Act quickly if you spot an error
Early action saves time and reduces costs. - Book directly with LATAM
Tickets purchased through third parties may involve extra steps or fees for corrections. - Keep copies of legal documents
If you recently changed your name, carry the official documents with you when you travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does LATAM allow free corrections?
In some cases, yes. Small errors spotted quickly may be corrected at no charge.
Can I fix my name at the airport?
It is possible but not advisable. Fees are higher, and you risk being denied boarding if time runs out.
Does LATAM allow ticket transfers?
No. Tickets are strictly non-transferable.
What if my middle name is missing?
LATAM generally accepts this as long as your first and last names match your ID. However, adding a middle name is possible as a correction.
What if my name legally changed after booking?
You must provide supporting documents such as a marriage certificate or court order to correct your ticket.
Why LATAM Maintains This Policy
Some passengers find the rules strict, but they exist for good reasons:
- To comply with international aviation security standards.
- To prevent ticket fraud and reselling.
- To maintain operational accuracy across systems.
This consistency protects both the airline and the traveler.
Conclusion
LATAM Airlines’ name correction policy is clear and firm:
- Corrections are allowed for typos, minor errors, and legal updates, usually for a fee.
- Transfers are not allowed. A ticket belongs solely to the passenger named at the time of booking.
- Documentation is required to verify the correction request.
- Timing matters. Early corrections are easier, cheaper, and more reliable.
For passengers, the lesson is simple: always use your exact legal name when booking. Double-check your details before finalizing the ticket, and act quickly if you notice an error. While LATAM provides pathways to correct genuine mistakes, prevention remains the most effective strategy.
By understanding and following LATAM’s name correction policy, travelers can avoid unnecessary stress, ensure smoother journeys, and focus on the joy of travel rather than administrative obstacles.