Ok here goes: -

I booked flights 12 days ago flying with US Airways, upon making the booking I was asked for names etc. For the party of 5, one of which was my younger 12 year old cousin.

Upon receiving my tickets 3 days ago, I realised I had given the wrong surname for my cousin (in all the excitement and rush !!!!.

To cut a long story short his mum died 7 yrs ago, he has not had contact with his father and my mother has brought him up. He has gone by our surname (and that of his late mothers ) for 7 years now at school, doctors etc, - BUT I had stupidly forgotten that his name registed at birth was on his birthlines and passport still.

I contacted the travel agent without delay upon receiving the tickets and they got back to me today :-

I was told by the agent that US Airways do not permit name changes but after a fight they agreed to look at the situation and get back, I might have to pay either 100% or at least 50% of the cost (£729). I in turn contacted the airline direct who told me that the name change can be done but would incurr a penalty of £100. I contacted the agent who told me that they would speak to the airline and get me a final price: -

Thus being : £100 airline penalty
£ 90 travel agent fee
£ 89 for the change of ticket price from booking until now.

I was also told that the name change CANNOT be done. The initial seat on the flight would have to be cancelled and refunded (599? - different to the £729 I paid) and I would have to but the seat back at the new ticket price.

Can you please give me your thought on this and if you have ever been in this situation before what sort of penalty did you have to pay to change a name........................or am I wrong in thinking that £279 is excessive?

Thanks for taking the time to read this rant !!!