How to book a flight for someone else

Reviewed by the AirAmbulance.org editorial team · Updated 13 November 2026 · Editorial policy

You can buy a ticket for another person, including an elderly parent or a relative abroad. What matters is entering their details exactly as on their ID, and requesting any assistance at the time of booking.

What information you need

• Their full name exactly as it appears on the passport or government ID they will travel with. For flights to, from or within the US, the name, date of birth and gender go to the TSA's Secure Flight program and must match that ID.
• Their date of birth and gender.
• Passport number and nationality for international flights (often added later, before check-in).
• Their phone number and email, so the airline can reach them about changes. Add yours as well if you are managing the trip.
• A redress number or Known Traveler Number, if they have one.

Paying for someone else's ticket

• You can pay with your own card. Some airlines may ask to see the card at check-in or ask for an authorisation form when the cardholder isn't travelling: check the airline's rules when you book.
• Keep the booking reference and send it to the traveller, along with the e-ticket.

If they need help on the journey

• Request wheelchair assistance, help through the airport and help with connections when you book, or as soon as possible after. US airlines must provide this assistance under the Air Carrier Access Act, and may require up to 48 hours' notice for some accommodations.
• For an elderly or unwell traveller, ask about seating near the front, an aisle seat and pre-boarding.
• If they need medical care during the flight, oxygen or a stretcher, the airline will usually need a medical form (often called a MEDIF) completed by their doctor before travel.
• If they can't travel alone safely, consider a companion or a medical escort on a commercial flight, or an air ambulance if they need care lying down.

Sources

• Delta Professional: Secure Flight Passenger Data FAQs
• US DOT: Passengers with disabilities

General information only, not medical, legal or insurance advice. Rules, coverage and prices change; confirm with your provider and insurer.