Malaysia Airlines has a specific name change and correction policy that allows limited modifications to passenger names on tickets, but it does not permit full name changes or ticket transfers to another person. Here’s a breakdown of the policy based on the airline’s practices.
Name Corrections Allowed:
- Malaysia Airlines permits minor corrections to a passenger’s name, such as fixing spelling errors or adjusting titles (e.g., Mr., Mrs.). Typically, you can correct up to three characters in the name without significant issues, provided the change aligns with the name on your government-issued ID or passport.
- Examples include correcting "Jonh Smith" to "John Smith" or adjusting "Mary Ann" to "Mary Anne." These are treated as corrections rather than full changes.
No Full Name Changes or Transfers:
- The airline does not allow transferring a ticket to a different person (e.g., changing "John Smith" to "Jane Doe"). This is standard across most airlines due to security and ticketing regulations.
- If you need a different traveler to use the ticket, you’d generally have to cancel the original booking (subject to fare rules) and purchase a new one.
Conditions and Timing:
- Before Ticket Issuance: Corrections to names can often be made free of charge if requested before the ticket is officially issued.
- After Ticket Issuance: Once the ticket is issued, corrections may incur a fee. For minor changes (up to three characters), this could be around MYR 50 (approximately USD 11), plus any applicable service tax. More significant corrections (beyond three characters) might cost around MYR 150 (approximately USD 34) after issuance.
- Changes must typically be requested at least 12-48 hours before departure, depending on the fare type and method of contact.
Special Cases:
- Legal Name Changes: If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or a legal process, you may be able to update it by providing documentation (e.g., marriage certificate, court order). Contact customer service for assistance.
- 24-Hour Window: If booked directly with Malaysia Airlines, changes or cancellations within 24 hours of booking are often free, provided the flight is at least 7 days away. This could include name corrections.
Fees:
- Minor corrections (up to three characters) before issuance are typically free. After issuance, expect MYR 50 (~USD 11) plus tax.
- Corrections exceeding three characters post-issuance may cost MYR 150 (~USD 34), subject to fare rules.
- If a new ticket is required (e.g., due to a major error), you’ll pay the full fare difference plus any cancellation fees from the original ticket.
Important Notes:
- The name on the ticket must match your passport or ID exactly to avoid boarding issues. Immigration and security checks are strict about this.
- Fare rules (e.g., Economy Lite, Flex) impact flexibility. Cheaper fares may have stricter policies, while premium fares might allow more leniency.
For the most current details or to handle a specific case, I recommend checking your ticket’s fare conditions via "Manage Booking" on their website or contacting Malaysia Airlines directly. Their boutique customer service might offer some flexibility for minor issues if you explain your situation clearly.
