If you’ve recently booked a flight and noticed a misspelling in your name, don’t panic—Philippine Airlines allows passengers to correct name errors before departure. However, making these changes isn’t always free. Understanding the Philippine Airlines name correction fee is essential to avoid unexpected charges and to ensure smooth boarding.
What is the Philippine Airlines Name Correction Policy?
Before diving into the Philippine Airlines name correction fee, it’s important to understand the airline’s policy on name changes. Philippine Airlines (PAL) allows minor corrections to passenger names to match the government-issued ID or passport. These corrections usually include:
- Fixing typographical errors (e.g., Jhon → John)
- Reversing first and last names (e.g., Smith John → John Smith)
- Correcting spacing or misplaced characters
- Amending a single character due to a mistake in booking
However, PAL strictly prohibits a complete name change where the passenger is replaced by another individual. The name on the ticket must match the traveler’s legal identification.
How Much is the Philippine Airlines Name Correction Fee?
The Philippine Airlines name correction fee varies depending on factors such as the route (domestic or international), type of ticket, and timing of the correction. While specific fee structures may change, here’s a general idea:
- Domestic Flights: Minor corrections may cost between PHP 1,000 to PHP 1,500.
- International Flights: Corrections might incur a fee between USD 50 to USD 100.
- Online Bookings via PAL Website/App: May offer a discounted or waived fee if corrected within 24 hours of booking.
These are estimated ranges. Always verify with customer service or your travel agent for the exact Philippine Airlines name correction fee applicable to your booking.
Can I Avoid the Name Correction Fee?
Yes, in some cases. Here are some helpful tips to potentially avoid paying the Philippine Airlines name correction fee:
- Make Corrections Within 24 Hours of Booking:
If you spot an error immediately, PAL may allow you to make corrections for free within the 24-hour grace period. - Book Through Official Channels:
Booking via the official PAL website or app provides better support for name corrections without incurring third-party fees. - Contact Customer Support Quickly:
Promptly notifying the airline allows a better chance of getting the correction approved without the full fee. - Double-Check Your Name Before Paying:
Always ensure your name matches your government-issued ID exactly when booking.
Why Does Philippine Airlines Charge a Name Correction Fee?
Airlines, including PAL, impose name correction fees due to the administrative effort required to:
- Revalidate or reissue the ticket
- Re-check passport or ID details
- Update travel databases and flight manifests
- Prevent ticket fraud or resale
So, while it may seem like a small error, correcting a name can involve backend processes—hence the Philippine Airlines name correction fee.
Name Correction vs. Name Change: What’s the Difference?
It’s crucial to understand the distinction between a name correction and a name change:
- Name Correction: Fixing minor errors like spelling or letter reversal. PAL allows this with a fee.
- Name Change: Replacing one traveler with another. This is not permitted by Philippine Airlines under any circumstances.
Failing to comply with this policy could result in denied boarding, even if you hold a valid ticket.
How to Request a Name Correction with Philippine Airlines?
To process a name correction and understand the applicable Philippine Airlines name correction fee, follow these steps:
1. Contact Customer Service
Call Philippine Airlines hotline or visit a PAL ticket office with your booking reference and ID proof. You may be asked to send an email to their support team with:
- A copy of the passenger’s ID or passport
- Booking confirmation or ticket number
- A written explanation of the correction needed
2. Submit Required Documents
Once the correction is approved, you’ll receive a confirmation email or a revised e-ticket. Be prepared to pay the Philippine Airlines name correction fee during this step.
3. Get Your Updated Ticket
After payment and processing, your updated ticket will be emailed. Always check your email inbox and spam folder to ensure you’ve received the corrected itinerary.
Timeframe for Name Corrections
The sooner you request the correction, the better. PAL may deny correction requests made too close to the departure time. Ideally, you should contact the airline at least 72 hours before your scheduled departure.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Booking
To prevent paying the Philippine Airlines name correction fee, avoid these common booking mistakes:
- Typing in nicknames instead of full names
- Reversing surname and first name
- Omitting middle names when required by the destination country
- Booking for someone else without verifying ID details
Being vigilant during the booking stage can save you both money and inconvenience later.
What If I Booked Through a Travel Agent or Third Party?
If you booked through a third-party website or travel agency, contact them directly. They may charge their own administrative fee on top of the Philippine Airlines name correction fee. Some third parties may also have limited access to make changes, resulting in delays or complications.
Whenever possible, book through PAL directly to simplify the process.
Is the Fee Refundable?
No, the Philippine Airlines name correction fee is non-refundable. Even if you cancel your trip or miss your flight, you won’t get this fee back. Make sure all your corrections are final before submitting the request.
What Happens If I Don’t Correct the Name?
If the name on your ticket does not match your passport or ID:
- You may be denied boarding at check-in or immigration.
- The airline may require you to purchase a new ticket.
- You risk losing the value of the existing ticket entirely.
Thus, paying the Philippine Airlines name correction fee is often a small price compared to the cost of buying a new ticket last-minute.
Final Tips on Name Corrections
- Always carry the ID used during booking when traveling.
- Save all correspondence with the airline as proof of the correction.
- If you notice a mistake after checking in, contact the airline immediately.
- Keep receipts of any Philippine Airlines name correction fee you paid, in case of travel insurance claims.
Conclusion
Traveling with incorrect name details on your flight ticket can lead to significant hassles, from denied boarding to lost money. Luckily, Philippine Airlines provides a system to correct such errors—although it typically involves a Philippine Airlines name correction fee. Understanding this fee, when it applies, and how to avoid it can save you both time and stress.
Before you finalize any flight booking with PAL, always double-check the spelling of your name. In case a mistake does happen, act quickly and follow the official name correction process. The Philippine Airlines name correction fee may be unavoidable in some cases, but being proactive can often reduce or eliminate the cost altogether.