Travel warning: Minor typo on airline ticket could cost fliers over €110

Some airlines are still charging hefty fees to change names — or even to correct minor spelling mistakes — on tickets, a consumer group has said.

Which? Travel probed the charges following “recurrent” complaints from members who had been charged for minor name changes, with some having to buy another ticket.

It found that asking an airline to change the name on a ticket could cost over €117, as in their terms and conditions the companies reserve the right to impose such a charge.

However, it also found that many airlines would correct minor errors for free, providing customers contacted them in advance of flying.

Which? member Frederick Hubbard, was charged a €60 fee and €635 for a new return ticket to Detroit when he missed an E out of his name when booking online.

He received his money back within a week after complaining to the agency, but Which? noted that the terms and conditions said refunds could take up to 16 weeks.

The European Commission plans to reform consumers’ flight rights and is calling for an end to “punitive” administration fees for spelling errors. It says airlines should provide reasonable corrections for free up to 48 hours before departure.

Aer Lingus allows for name changes to be made where there is a spelling error and the name is one or two digits out. British Airways does not charge for spelling mistakes, but will ask customers to pay any increase in taxes, fees, and charges since the original booking.

Ryanair charged €110 for a name change online or €160 via the call centre or at the airport, while minor errors may be charged at €10 through the reservations centre.

Richard Lloyd, Which? executive director, said: “It’s outrageous that getting an airline to correct a mistake could cost you more than €117, but the good news is that some will amend minor errors free of charge if you contact them.

“People should be aware that conditions may be different if you book through a tour operator or travel agent. Travellers should double-check bookings to ensure that all their details are correct to avoid hefty charges.”