The Avianca Airlines Name Change Policy is designed to help passengers correct errors or make necessary updates to their booking details. Even small mistakes such as a misplaced letter, a missing middle name, or an incorrect surname can cause issues at the airport because ticketed names must exactly match the information on government-issued identification. Avianca recognizes how stressful this can be for travelers and provides clear guidelines to ensure name corrections are handled smoothly and efficiently, allowing passengers to continue their journey without disruptions.

Why Name Accuracy Matters in Air Travel

Accuracy of passenger information is a cornerstone of air travel security and compliance. Airlines, immigration officials, and airport authorities all rely on the details in a ticket to match perfectly with identification documents. A misspelled name could raise red flags during security checks, prevent boarding, or even invalidate a ticket. By offering a structured policy for corrections, Avianca makes it possible for passengers to resolve issues before they reach the airport, ensuring smoother travel experiences and greater peace of mind.

Scope of the Policy

Avianca’s policy is primarily meant for correcting errors rather than transferring tickets to different individuals. For instance, fixing a typo, adding a missing character, or making small adjustments to reflect accurate spellings is generally allowed. However, changing the ticket to a completely different traveler is prohibited, as airline tickets are strictly non-transferable. This approach balances customer flexibility with the need to maintain security and pricing integrity.

Correcting Minor Spelling Mistakes

Many passengers encounter small typographical errors during the booking process. Avianca allows minor corrections of a few characters without much difficulty. These corrections are often processed quickly through the “Manage Your Booking” section on the airline’s website or mobile app. Depending on the fare type and timing, such minor adjustments may not incur a fee, particularly if they are addressed promptly. Quick action after booking ensures travelers avoid additional costs and complications later.

More Substantial Name Adjustments

Some passengers may need more than a simple spelling fix. For example, names may need to be updated after marriage or divorce, or middle names might be added to match identification documents. Avianca permits such adjustments, provided the request is supported by legal documents like passports, marriage certificates, or official name change orders. These corrections often require assistance from customer service rather than self-service tools to ensure proper verification.

Restrictions and Non-Transferability

It’s important to understand what the policy does not allow. Tickets cannot be reassigned to another traveler under the pretense of a name change. For instance, a passenger cannot change a booking under their name to someone else’s name, such as a friend or relative. This restriction prevents fraud and ensures that airfare pricing remains consistent. Passengers must always travel under the name they used to book the ticket, with only documented and valid corrections permitted.

Associated Fees and Charges

The fees for name corrections under Avianca vary depending on the type of fare purchased, the route, and the complexity of the correction. Minor typographical changes are often low-cost or free, especially if identified early. More significant modifications, particularly those requiring legal documentation, may involve a service charge. International flights typically have stricter requirements and may carry higher fees. Passengers are encouraged to review the fare rules at the time of booking or consult Avianca directly to avoid surprises later.

How to Initiate a Name Change Request

Travelers have multiple options for requesting name corrections. The simplest way for small errors is through Avianca’s official website or app. By logging into the “My Trips” or “Manage Booking” section, passengers can view their reservations and make corrections where allowed. For more complex situations, such as legal updates, it’s best to contact Avianca’s customer service team directly. Passengers who booked through third-party travel agencies are typically required to make changes through those agencies, although Avianca may assist in certain cases.

Documentation Requirements for Legal Changes

When changes involve more than minor spelling fixes, documentation becomes essential. Passengers may be asked to provide official documents such as a passport, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court-issued name change document. These proofs ensure that the request is legitimate and aligned with identification records. Travelers should keep copies of such documents readily available to speed up the process. Providing accurate and timely paperwork can make the difference between smooth correction and unnecessary delays.

International Travel Considerations

For international travel, strict rules are enforced to ensure compliance with immigration and security protocols. Even a single incorrect letter can create issues during border checks. Avianca strongly advises passengers on international routes to review their tickets carefully well before travel. Corrections should be made as early as possible, as last-minute requests may not be processed in time. Having accurate details is especially important for those requiring visas, where ticket names must match application documents exactly.

Tips to Prevent Errors During Booking