Navigating the Name Change Process with Sun Country Airlines
Traveling should be a seamless experience, but even a minor error—like a misspelled name on your ticket—can cause major disruptions. Sun Country Airlines, known for its customer-focused travel experience, offers a structured yet flexible approach to name changes. Whether it’s a simple typo, an inverted first and last name, or a legal name change, understanding how to navigate Sun Country’s name change policy is essential for a smooth journey.
This guide will help you understand what changes are allowed, how to make them, what documentation may be required, and what fees you might expect—plus valuable tips to avoid complications.
Why Does the Name on Your Ticket Matter?
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and international aviation authorities require that the name on your ticket exactly matches your government-issued ID or passport. This regulation helps ensure security and prevents unauthorized travel. Even a one-letter typo can raise red flags, resulting in delays, denial of boarding, or needing to rebook your ticket entirely.
That’s why airlines, including Sun Country, enforce strict rules regarding name corrections and changes—while offering some flexibility for genuine errors.
Are Name Changes Allowed on Sun Country Tickets?
The short answer is: Yes, but with limitations.
Sun Country Airlines does not allow full name changes intended to transfer the ticket to another person. Tickets are non-transferable. However, Sun Country does allow name corrections for:
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Minor spelling errors
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Typos or character omissions
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Reversed first and last names
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Missing or incorrect middle names
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Legal name changes (due to marriage, divorce, or court order)
These changes are meant to help ensure that the ticket reflects the rightful passenger’s name correctly—not to allow someone else to fly in your place.
Types of Name Corrections Permitted
Here are specific examples of the kinds of changes you can make:
Incorrect Name | Corrected To | Allowed? | Reason |
---|---|---|---|
Jhon Smith | John Smith | ✅ Yes | Typo correction |
Smith John | John Smith | ✅ Yes | Reversed names |
Jane A. Doe | Jane Ann Doe | ✅ Yes | Middle name fix |
Jane Smith | Jane Johnson | ✅ Yes | Legal change (marriage) |
Jane Smith | Emily Brown | ❌ No | Ticket transfer (denied) |
How to Initiate a Name Correction
Sun Country offers three main ways to request a name change or correction:
1. Online via Manage Travel
You can attempt basic name corrections directly through the Manage Travel section of the Sun Country website:
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Visit www.suncountry.com
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Click Manage Travel
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Enter your confirmation code and last name
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Select your reservation and look for name correction options
Note: Not all name changes are available online. If the correction involves legal documents or is more than just a typo, you’ll need to contact customer service.
2. Call Sun Country Customer Service
For more involved corrections, such as those requiring documentation, call Sun Country directly:
📞 Customer Support: +1 (877) 337-0761 (Flights Counsel)
Be ready to provide:
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Your reservation number
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A valid government-issued ID
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Any legal documents (e.g., marriage certificate or court order)
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Payment method (if fees apply)
3. Visit the Airport Counter
If your departure is within 24 hours or you're unable to correct the issue online or over the phone, visit the Sun Country counter at the airport. This option is best for last-minute changes but should be used only when necessary, as options may be more limited.
Required Documentation for Legal Name Changes
If your name change is due to marriage, divorce, or other legal reasons, you'll need to submit official documentation. Acceptable documents include:
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Passport or government-issued ID (with the correct name)
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Marriage certificate
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Divorce decree
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Court order for name change
Ensure that all documents are legible and consistent with your travel ID.
Are There Fees for Name Changes?
Yes, name correction fees may apply, depending on several factors:
By Fare Type:
Fare Type | Correction Fee | Notes |
---|---|---|
Business Select | Usually Free | Most flexible |
Anytime Fare | ~$50 per person | Moderate flexibility |
Wanna Get Away Fare | ~$100 per person | Most restrictive |
By Booking Method:
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Direct bookings: Easier and often cheaper to correct
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Vacation packages: May incur additional correction fees
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Third-party bookings: Corrections must go through the original booking agent (Expedia, Kayak, etc.)
When Should You Request a Name Change?
Act as soon as you notice the mistake. Ideally, initiate the correction at least 48 hours before your departure. Waiting too long can limit your options and increase the cost.
Corrections made after check-in opens (usually 24 hours before flight) are significantly harder to process—and sometimes not allowed.
Common Scenarios & What to Do
Here are some typical scenarios travelers face and how to handle them:
✈️ I spelled my first name wrong by one letter.
✅ Log into Manage Travel and try correcting it online. If not possible, call customer service.
💍 I got married and need to update my last name.
✅ Provide your marriage certificate and government-issued ID. Contact support by phone.
🧒 My child’s name is missing a middle name.
✅ Call customer service to correct. Children’s tickets follow the same rules.
📅 I realized the error on the day of travel.
🚫 Last-minute corrections are risky. Go to the airport counter immediately and bring ID and documents.
Pro Tips to Avoid Name Issues
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Double-check your booking details before submitting payment.
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Use your full legal name as shown on your ID or passport.
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Avoid booking with nicknames or abbreviations.
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Book directly with Sun Country when possible—this simplifies correction procedures.
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Print or save a copy of your corrected itinerary as confirmation.
FAQs: Quick Answers
Can I change the name to someone else’s?
❌ No. Tickets are non-transferable.
Can I fix a small typo for free?
✅ Possibly. Some small corrections are free for direct bookings and premium fares.
Can I update my name after marriage?
✅ Yes, with legal proof (e.g., marriage certificate).
What if I booked through a travel agent?
📞 Contact the agency first. They must coordinate with Sun Country.
Can I make a correction at the airport?
✅ Yes, but only for urgent, last-minute needs.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the name change process with Sun Country Airlines doesn’t have to be stressful. While the airline maintains strict guidelines to ensure security and prevent ticket misuse, it also provides a practical path for passengers who make honest mistakes or experience legal name changes.
By understanding what’s allowed, acting quickly, and following the correct procedure, you can ensure your name is accurately reflected on your ticket—avoiding travel-day headaches and unnecessary costs.
If you ever find yourself needing help, Sun Country’s customer service is available at +1 (877) 337-0761, or you can visit the full policy page here:
🔗 Sun Country Airlines Name Change Policy
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