Can You Transfer a Plane Ticket to Someone Else's Name?

Tweet Like Plus Pin It Share

By Elena Porter
Updated June 28, 2024 6:42 AM EST

Have you ever booked a flight and suddenly had your plans changed? You're not alone! While you may wonder, "Can you transfer a plane ticket to someone else?", we have the solution you are looking for.

Even though direct transfers on most airlines are rare, there are still a few options. In this blog, we'll explore various airline policies, alternative solutions, and tips to help you navigate the situation and make the most of your travel plans.

Understanding Transfer Airline Ticket Policies

Most major U.S. airlines, including Delta, United, Southwest, American, Spirit, and Qatar, typically do not allow passengers to transfer airline tickets to another person. However, there are exceptions that can vary by airline. Look at these policies below to make informed decisions and avoid potential issues if your travel plans change.

Delta Airlines

• Delta transfer ticket to another person is not possible as all tickets are non-transferable and issued solely to the named passenger.
• While Delta permits name corrections for a fee, this is limited to minor spelling errors and not for changing the ticket holder.
• Delta charges fees for flight changes initiated by the passenger, ranging from $200 to $500.

United Airlines

• United Airlines transfer ticket to another person is strictly prohibited.
• The passenger on the ticket must match the ID presented at check-in.
• Basic Economy tickets can't be changed, but you'll receive a full refund if you cancel within 24 hours of booking.

Southwest Airlines

• Southwest transfer tickets are not supported by the airline.The tickets must be used by the named passenger on the ticket.
• You can cancel or change your reservation within 24 hours of making it without paying a ticket change fee.
• If you cancel your Southwest flight after 24 hours of booking, you will receive a transferable flight credit for future travel instead of a refund.

American Airlines

• They do not allow passengers to transfer airline tickets to another person in American Airlines.
• Passengers can change their tickets to another flight before the departure time of their original flight.
• The airline charges a fee for changes, depending on the fare class and other factors.

Spirit Airlines

• Like many significant carriers, Spirit transfer tickets to someone else are unavailable.
• Transferring points between free Spirit accounts is also prohibited, but Spirit offers points pooling, which allows you to combine points with friends and family.
• Spirit might allow a name change on a ticket in certain specific situations, but this option is subject to restrictions and fees.

Qatar Airways

• You cannot transfer airline ticket to another person on Qatar Airways.
• Qatar Airways offers convenient options for booking, modifying, or canceling flights.
• Contact our customer support team at +1-571-378-7016 for detailed info and personalized guidance.

Frontier Airlines

• Unlike others, Frontier Airlines transfers tickets to another person depending on the fare type.
• They allow passengers to change the name on a ticket for a fee.
• The cost is $75 if the last name remains the same and $125 if both first and last names need to be changed.
• The airline allows changing or canceling flights for a fee.

FlyO Tip: Choose refundable tickets or airlines with lenient change policies to ease potential ticket transfer hurdles.

The Complete Process of How to Transfer a Flight Ticket to Another Person

Even though most airlines have strict policies against ticket transfers if your airline supports this option, here's how you can proceed:

1. Check the Airline's Policy and Verify: Start by reviewing your airline's specific policy on ticket transfers. This will help you answer the common question, "Can you transfer plane tickets to another person?"
2. Understand the Costs: If your airline allows name changes or transfers, be aware of the fees involved. These can vary significantly depending on the airline and fare type.
3. Contact Customer Service: Reach out to FlyOFinder's customer service team at +1-571-378-7016. They provide detailed instructions about how to transfer a plane ticket to someone else while helping you explore your options efficiently.
4. Confirmation and Updates: Ensure you receive confirmation of any changes made. Update all necessary travel documents and itineraries to reflect the new passenger details accordingly.

FlyO Tip: Anticipate potential changes and consider purchasing travel insurance for added protection against unexpected disruptions.

Alternatives to Transferring Tickets

• Shift Your Schedule: Most airlines allow you to change travel dates or flight times for a fee plus any fare difference. This can be an expensive option but may suit your needs.
• Future Flight Credit: Cancel the flight and receive a travel voucher or credit for future use. A cancellation penalty fee is typically deducted from the credit amount.
• Explore Exceptions: In rare cases, you might qualify to transfer airline ticket to another person for exceptions like bereavement or military leave policies, which allow changes.
• Cancellation and Rebooking: If all else fails, consider canceling your existing ticket and rebooking a new ticket under the desired passenger's name. This might include potential cancellation fees and fare differences.

Conclusion

Now that you know the answer to "Can you transfer a plane ticket to someone else?" it's evident that major airlines like Delta, United, and American Airlines do not allow direct transfers. However, each airline offers alternatives such as name changes, future flight credits, or flexible booking policies. By understanding these policies and exploring available options, you can easily change your travel plans. If you still have any doubts, feel free to contact FlyOFinder's friendly support team at +1-571-378-7016.

FAQ’s

About the author

Elena Porter

Experiences life to the fullest through travel; Elena Porter has been a travel author at FlyOfinder since 2019. She has extensively explored the best of over ten countries, offering unique skills to guide readers in discovering the most remarkable places in each city. Ensuring to provide the best of each destination and make your travel unforgettable.