Travel with Children - Child in arms change name with Virgin America

Hi there, I wonder if anyone had any tips for avoiding the $100 fee they're asking.

I bought a flight for my friend LAX-ORL in a few weeks. She has a 1yr old which she will hold on her lap. Stupid me put the childs name with mum's surname but she isn't married yet, and so the surname is wrong for the baby in the booking.

I really thought that since the ticket was free it wouldn't be an issue but I think I'm going to be landed with a change name fee.

Any hints, tips or thoughts to avoid the $100 (nearly the cost of the adult ticket!).

Many thanks!

Well if that ticket was free and they want to charge for a name change just leave that ticket and add another free infant to the booking as long as there is two pax travelling

Since the child is only 1 and there's obviously no ID check, does it really matter what name you have on the reservation?

Since the child is only 1 and there's obviously no ID check, does it really matter what name you have on the reservation?
I don't know why it would unless Virgin America asks to see the child's birth certificate for proof of age.

Children under age 18 do not need ID if flying with their parents (who don't have to prove that). The airline can ask for a BC as proof that a lap baby hasn't yet turned 2. They have that right but a name change fee for this?!?

Who told you that you had to pay? On the phone? Is this information on the website? Did you contact them by email? I'd pursue this, especially if you only heard this from one source.