Booking a flight sometimes happens quickly, and mistakes can occur. One of the most common questions travelers ask is: Can I change the person on a plane ticket with Spirit Airlines? This question is especially important when plans change, someone else needs to travel, or a name was entered incorrectly during booking. Understanding the Spirit name change policy can help you avoid unnecessary stress, fees, or even losing the value of your ticket.
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about changing passenger details with Spirit Airlines, including what is allowed, what is not allowed, and the best steps to take if you need to correct or modify a name on your ticket.
Understanding Spirit Airlines Ticket Policies
Spirit Airlines is a low-cost carrier, which means it offers budget-friendly fares by keeping its policies strict and straightforward. Unlike some full-service airlines, Spirit has limited flexibility when it comes to changing passenger information.
A Spirit Airlines ticket is generally non-transferable, meaning you usually cannot change the ticket to a completely different person. However, there are certain situations where a Spirit name change or correction may be allowed.
Can You Change the Passenger Name on a Spirit Airlines Ticket?
Short Answer: No, You Cannot Transfer a Ticket to Another Person
Spirit Airlines does not allow full passenger transfers. This means you cannot change the entire name on a ticket to give it to someone else. If John Smith cannot travel, the ticket cannot simply be changed to Jane Smith.
This rule exists due to security regulations, fare rules, and airline policies.
What Kind of Spirit Name Change Is Allowed?
While full passenger changes are not permitted, Spirit Airlines does allow name corrections under specific circumstances. These corrections fall under the Spirit name change policy, which is designed to fix genuine mistakes rather than transfer tickets.
Allowed Name Corrections Include:
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Minor spelling errors (for example, “Jhon” instead of “John”)
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Typographical mistakes
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Missing or extra letters
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Incorrect order of first and last name
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Legal name changes due to marriage or divorce (with documentation)
These changes are considered corrections, not transfers.
Spirit Name Change vs Name Correction
It’s important to understand the difference between a Spirit name change and a name correction, as Spirit Airlines treats them very differently.
Name Correction
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Fixes small errors
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Passenger remains the same
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Usually allowed with or without a fee
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Documentation may be required
Name Change (New Passenger)
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Replaces one traveler with another
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Not allowed under Spirit Airlines policy
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Requires canceling and rebooking a new ticket
How to Request a Spirit Name Change or Correction
If you believe your situation qualifies for a Spirit name change or correction, you can follow these steps:
Step 1: Review Your Booking
Check your ticket confirmation and compare the name exactly as it appears on your government-issued ID or passport.
Step 2: Act Quickly
The sooner you request a Spirit name change, the better. Corrections requested soon after booking are more likely to be approved.
Step 3: Contact Spirit Airlines
Reach out to Spirit Airlines customer support through their official website, mobile app, or customer service phone line.
Step 4: Provide Documentation
For legal name changes, you may need:
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Marriage certificate
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Divorce decree
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Court-issued name change document
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Valid government ID
Step 5: Pay Any Applicable Fees
Depending on the fare type and timing, a Spirit name change fee may apply.
Spirit Name Change Fees
Spirit Airlines fees can vary based on:
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Route
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Fare type
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Time of request
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Type of correction needed
Minor spelling corrections may sometimes be done for free, especially if corrected shortly after booking. More complex corrections or legal name updates may involve a service fee.
It’s important to note that fees are usually lower than canceling and rebooking, making a Spirit name change correction the better option when eligible.
What If You Need to Change the Passenger Completely?
If you truly need to change the person traveling, Spirit Airlines requires you to:
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Cancel the original ticket (if refundable or within allowed timeframe)
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Use any available flight credit (if applicable)
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Book a new ticket in the new passenger’s name
In many cases, Spirit tickets are non-refundable, so you may lose the ticket value unless you purchased additional flexibility options.
Spirit Name Change for International Flights
For international travel, name accuracy is even more critical. The name on your ticket must exactly match your passport.
Spirit Airlines may allow corrections for:
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Spelling mismatches
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Missing middle names (usually not an issue)
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Legal name changes
However, Spirit is stricter with international bookings, and documentation is almost always required for a Spirit name change on international flights.
Same-Day Name Changes: Is It Possible?
Same-day Spirit name change requests are risky. While minor corrections might still be possible, they depend on:
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Airport staff discretion
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Security requirements
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Time before departure
It is strongly recommended to request any Spirit name change well before the day of travel.
Tips to Avoid Spirit Name Change Issues
To avoid the need for a Spirit name change altogether, follow these tips:
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Double-check spelling before confirming payment
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Use the exact name from your ID or passport
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Avoid nicknames
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Ensure legal name matches travel documents
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Review confirmation email immediately after booking
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I change the name on a Spirit Airlines ticket to another person?
No. Spirit Airlines does not allow full passenger name changes or ticket transfers.
Does Spirit Airlines allow name corrections?
Yes. Minor spelling errors and legal name updates may be allowed under the Spirit name change policy.
Is there a fee for Spirit name change?
Fees may apply depending on the type of correction, fare rules, and timing.
Can I change my last name after marriage?
Yes, Spirit may allow this with proper legal documentation.
What if my name is completely wrong?
If the name is entirely different, Spirit may consider it a new passenger, requiring cancellation and rebooking.
Final Thoughts on Spirit Name Change Policy
So, can you change the person on a plane ticket with Spirit Airlines? The clear answer is no—Spirit Airlines does not permit transferring a ticket to a different traveler. However, the Spirit name change policy does allow reasonable name corrections for genuine errors or legal changes.
Understanding the difference between a correction and a transfer is essential. If you catch a mistake early and act quickly, you can often resolve it without major cost or inconvenience. Always review your booking carefully and reach out to Spirit Airlines as soon as you notice an issue.