Bealine - Ever since I've worked in the travel industry, the booking name and passport name must correspond - and even on UK Domestic trips tickets are strictly "Non Transferable!"
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Bealine- we are not talking about changing the name from Mickey Mouse/Mr to Donald Duck/Mrs in this case.
The surname changes, the first name remains the same, and the case is genuine. I am not saying all and sundry can do it, but the airline reservation controllers- generally higher up in the heirarchy ( but not not the travel agent) does have some authority to do so. And if you read one of Hoofie's posts, this was confirmed by BA as well!
Believe me, I have worked a few years with the reservation toy your guys are playing with.
As for tickets being non transferrable, well a ID check for domestic trips is not a must everywhere in the world. I have made three trips in the last two months in two different airlines, and I was not asked for any ID (nor was I required to carry any!). However be rest assured I was travelling on my own ticket !
Cheerio