Originally Posted by
the laughing calf
Hi all, i've read almost every post I can find on this issue but I am still concerned.
My first name is Terrence on my passport and I have booked the tickets in the name of Terry. As expected KLM are not interested as I booked it via Travelocity.
I have spoken to Travelocity who say I must buy another ticket, they will refund the original ticket minus a £45 admin fee. Furthermore it will take 16 weeks to refund my original ticket due to the funds being paid to the airline
Surely this is rediculous? I probably wouldn't be that fussed about making hte name change, however I am flying to Beijing then onto Hong Kong with an internal flight (Dragon Air). Seeing i'm going to China I really want my documentation to be perfect as you can imagine.
Any thoughts?
EDIT: I've also just seen this from Dragonair
Travel document check at Hong Kong International Airport
Last Updated: 13 October 2008
For immigration and security purpose, starting from 3 November 2008, passengers departing from Hong Kong International Airport should take note that there will be a travel document check at entry into the departure immigration halls to ensure that passenger’s name printed on boarding pass is, in full, the same as printed on passport.
Should you require assistance at the airport, please proceed to our check-in counters.
I know of a number of people who had problems with incorrect first names (though I have personally had a number of 'lucky' escapes when my travel agent made a mistake, single letter only) or with married vs maiden names. Most were in the end allowed to board but this was on European flights or flights to 'non sensitive' destinations, i.e not the US.
Just a guess but the special caution for China may be related to the way Chinese names are spelled in the Roman alphabet.
In the end it will depend on whether someone is diligent and spots it, but this is probably not a risk worth taking.
Try calling KLM reservatons in the UK, they may be able to amend the e-ticket rather than issue a new one.
Just for info, the FAQ at the KL website state:
How can I change my personal details on my ticket?
If you want to change the personal details on your ticket or if the personal details on your ticket are not correct, please contact the agency where you have booked your ticket. Did you book your ticket on KLM.com? Please contact our Customer service centre.