New Regulations Regarding Passenger Names on Airline Tickets

Allison Sodha

Here’s a new rule that you should know about. Middle names that are included on passports and drivers' licenses will soon have to be reflected on the passenger's ticket when they fly within the US, and by December if they fly overseas.

The requirement from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is supposed to make it easier for travelers, airlines and the TSA to avoid ID hassles at airports. Because the master lists of questionable travelers are apparently in full-name format, the TSA wants to make sure that travel documents conform to its lists. The requirement was supposed to take effect May 15 for domestic travel, but has been pushed back a month or so. The new rule apparently stipulates that passengers must travel under their name as it appears on the ID utilized to board their flight. That typically means a passport or a driver's license domestically, and a passport or "enhanced" driver's license internationally. Under the new rule, when making flight reservations, each airline is supposed to obtain the full name of the passenger and pass it along to the TSA. The ticket and/or boarding pass should exactly match the identification used. The TSA has announced that it will be lenient in case of small differences.

Topics: Transportation, Airlines

Allison Sodha

Written by Allison Sodha

As the President of Sodha Travel and author of Go! Girl Guides India, Allison has spent almost two decades exploring South Asia. She has a passion for creating experiences fueled by a deeper understanding of local communities.