Wright Air Name Change Policy

Mistakes happen. Whether it’s a quick typo during a midnight booking session or a legal name update after a big life change, seeing the wrong name on your flight confirmation can be stressful. If you’re flying with Wright Air Service (based in Fairbanks, Alaska) or North-Wright Airways (operating in Canada), the rules for fixing these issues are quite specific.

Because these are regional carriers often serving remote communities, their systems aren't always as automated as the "big guys." You won't always find a "Change Name" button on their websites. This guide breaks down exactly how to handle the Wright Air Name Change Policy so you can get to the gate without any hiccups.

Understanding the Basics of the Policy

Before diving into the "how-to," it is important to understand the philosophy behind these rules. For security and regulatory reasons, all airlines require the name on your ticket to match your government-issued ID exactly.

Generally, the Wright Air Name Change Policy follows these core principles:

Non-Transferable Tickets: You cannot simply "swap" your seat with a friend or family member. Tickets are issued to a specific individual and cannot be signed over to someone else.
Accuracy is Mandatory: If your ID says "Robert" but your ticket says "Bob," you might run into trouble at the counter.
Timing is Everything: Corrections made well in advance are much easier (and cheaper) than those attempted at the airport.

Wright Air Service (Alaska) Rules

For those traveling through the Alaskan interior, Wright Air Service is a lifeline. Their policy is designed to keep their small-plane operations running on time.

Minor Spelling Corrections

If you noticed a typo—like "Smithh" instead of "Smith"—the airline is usually reasonable. However, because they use manual manifests for many of their smaller aircraft, you need to call them to update the record.

Fee: There is typically no "correction fee" for a simple one or two-letter typo if caught early. However, if the ticket needs to be completely reissued, a $50.00 service fee may apply.
The Deadline: You must make these updates prior to the day of departure. Waiting until you are standing on the tarmac in Fairbanks or a village hub often results in a "late-cancellation" situation.

Legal Name Changes (Marriage, Divorce, Court Order)

If you booked a flight months ago and have since legally changed your name, Wright Air Service requires documentation. You will likely need to email a scan of your marriage certificate or updated ID to their reservations desk.

Process: Call (907) 474-0502 first. They will guide you on where to send your documents so they can update your traveler profile.

Rebooking and Change Fees

If a name change is actually a "person change" (which isn't allowed), you will essentially have to cancel and rebook.

Standard Change Fee: $50.00.
Fare Difference: If the new seat costs more than the original, you’ll pay the difference.

North-Wright Airways (Canada) Rules

Flying in the Northwest Territories involves different regulations. North-Wright Airways has a slightly more structured fee schedule for name-related updates.

The 24-Hour Grace Period

Like many Canadian carriers, North-Wright often allows for immediate fixes. If you catch an error within 24 hours of booking, you can usually get it corrected for free, provided your flight isn't leaving in the next few hours.

After the Grace Period

Once that 24-hour window closes, things get more expensive:

Name Change/Correction Fee: Expect to pay approximately $75.00 CAD plus tax for a name correction.
Transferability: Unlike the Alaskan counterpart, North-Wright may occasionally allow a full name change (transferring the ticket to another person) if the fare class allows it, but this is rare and always involves the $75.00 fee plus any fare increases.

Step-by-Step: How to Request a Correction

If you've spotted an error, don't panic. Follow these steps to resolve it quickly:

Compare Documents: Hold your ticket confirmation next to your ID. Look for any discrepancies in the first, middle, or last names.
Gather Your Info: Have your Confirmation Number (PNR) and the credit card used for the original purchase ready.
Call Directly: Do not try to fix this via social media or third-party travel sites first.
- Wright Air Service (AK): (907) 474-0502
- North-Wright Airways (Canada): (867) 587-2288
Ask for an Updated Itinerary: Once the agent makes the change, stay on the line until you receive a new confirmation email showing the correct spelling.

Summary Table: Fees and Restrictions

Feature	Wright Air Service (Alaska)	North-Wright Airways (Canada)
Simple Typos	Free (if no reissue needed)	~$75.00 (after 24 hrs)
Legal Name Change	Allowed with Documentation	Allowed with Documentation
Ticket Transfer	Strictly Not Allowed	Sometimes Allowed ($75 fee)
Last Minute Change	$50 fee (Day of flight)	Generally Not Permitted

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

The "Middle Name" Dilemma

Most regional carriers don't strictly require a middle name on the ticket, but if your passport or REAL ID has it, it's safer to include it. If you left it out, it's usually not worth a $50 fee to add it, but you should call and ask if they need it for the manifest.

Third-Party Bookings

If you bought your ticket through Expedia, Orbitz, or a local travel agency, the Wright Air Name Change Policy gets more complicated. Usually, the airline will tell you that the "owner" of the ticket is the agency. You'll have to call the agency first, pay their fee, and then they will coordinate with Wright Air.

Weight Manifests

On many Wright Air flights (especially the Cessnas and Navajos), your weight is as important as your name. If you are changing a passenger entirely (where allowed), you must provide the new passenger's weight. This is a safety requirement for small aircraft balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the name at the airport?

It is highly discouraged. While the agent at the counter might be able to help, they have the power to charge you the maximum change fee or even deny boarding if the flight is nearly full and the manifest is locked.

Does Wright Air charge for a name change after marriage?

Technically, yes, if it requires a ticket reissue. However, if you bring your marriage certificate and your old ID to the counter, some agents may be lenient. To be safe, always call and update the reservation at least 72 hours before you fly.

What if my first and last names are swapped?

This is a common error. While it seems minor, it can flag security systems. Wright Air Service usually fixes this for the standard $50 rebooking fee if it's past the day of purchase.

Thoughts for Travelers

The best way to navigate the Wright Air Name Change Policy is to be proactive. These airlines pride themselves on personal service and "bush pilot" hospitality, so they are often more helpful than major international carriers if you treat their staff with respect.

Double-check your booking the moment you receive the confirmation email. If something looks wrong, pick up the phone. A five-minute call today can save you from being grounded tomorrow.