PNR - what is a Passenger Name Record and where can you find it?

Traveling by plane involves a lot of formalities. One of the most important elements of any reservation is the PNR number. This multi-character code has a decisive impact on access to your reservation, check-in options, and the ability to make changes to your travel plans.

What is a PNR number? Where can you find it? How does it differ from other numbers on your boarding pass or airline ticket? We explain!

What is a PNR number? Basic information

A PNR (Passenger Name Record) is a unique alphanumeric code assigned to a passenger's flight. The number contains data about the passenger and their travel itinerary. It typically consists of 6 characters - letters and numbers and their combinations.

The PNR number system was introduced in the 1960s. The aim was to improve the management of reservations and airline passenger data.

What information is contained in the PNR?

The PNR is a complete record of information about a passenger's air travel. Knowing the contents of the number allows you to better manage your reservation and avoid problems during check-in.

The PNR number contains:

• Passenger data - passenger's first and last name, contact details, passport information (if required by law), seat number on the plane, and travel preferences (e.g., seat location);
• Flight details - date, departure and arrival times, flight numbers, airport and airline codes, etc.;
• Airline ticket information - ticket number, fare conditions, form of payment;
• Booking status and online check-in information.

How to check your PNR?

Checking your PNR is essential if you need to confirm your booking, check in, or make changes to your flight. There are several ways to find and verify this number, which we outline below.

Booking confirmation

The PNR number is usually found in the booking confirmation received immediately after purchasing the ticket. It can be obtained via email or SMS.

Boarding pass

The PNR can also be found on your boarding pass. The number is clearly marked there. It is usually located at the top of the document, near the passenger details and flight information.

Airline website

If you made your reservation online, you can find your PNR number on the airline's website. Just log in to your account.

Airline mobile app

Many airlines offer mobile apps that allow you to make changes to your booking. You can also find your PNR number there.

When do we use the PNR number?

The PNR number is a key element of every flight booking. The most important situations in which you will need this number are:

• Online check-in - the PNR allows you to check in online;
• Checking flight and booking status - you can find information such as departure and arrival times or booking status at any time;
• Changing or canceling a reservation - PNR allows you to make the necessary modifications;
• Contacting the airline - when reporting complaints, ticket problems, or reservation inquiries, the PNR number allows employees to quickly find passenger and flight information;
• Travel on connecting flights and transfers - the PNR number allows the carrier to track all legs of the journey and ensure the synchronization of baggage and additional services.

Why do airlines need PNR?

PNR is a key element of every airline's reservation system. It allows them to quickly and efficiently identify a passenger's reservation in the system. This makes it possible to receive a boarding pass, manage seats, and check in online.

The PNR number also allows carriers to take into account passenger preferences such as special meals or window seats, which facilitates flight organization and improves travel comfort. Another reason is security—PNR data is transferred to border control and security services. This speeds up check-in and helps prevent threats.

PNR is also essential for making changes to reservations, refunding tickets, and handling complaints. Without this number, airlines cannot effectively manage payments or flight modifications.

PNR number and other numbers on the boarding pass or e-ticket – how do they differ?

When traveling by air, passengers may notice several different numbers on their airline ticket or boarding pass. Although they may appear similar, each serves a different purpose. How do PNR, reservation number, flight number, and ticket number differ from each other?

PNR and reservation number

In many cases, the reservation number is the same as the PNR. However, in some reservation systems, they may differ. The PNR number focuses on passenger data and travel details, while the reservation code is mainly used for administrative management of the reservation in the airline's system.

PNR and flight number

The flight number is the designation of a specific flight, usually consisting of the airline code and numbers. It provides information about the route and carrier, but does not identify the traveler and their reservation. The PNR, on the other hand, contains all the information about a given passenger, allowing you to find their reservation on a given flight.

PNR and ticket number

A ticket number is usually a 13-digit code assigned to an electronic ticket. It confirms payment and is also necessary when making a complaint. The PNR number, on the other hand, identifies the entire reservation and allows you to manage your flight, check in online, and make changes to your trip.

PNR number - frequently asked questions

Below are answers to frequently asked questions that explain what a PNR number is.

What does a PNR number look like?

A PNR number usually consists of 6 characters - letters, numbers, or a combination of both, e.g., R3T5B6. The code does not contain spaces. What's more, it is unique to a given reservation.

Are PNR and reservation numbers the same?

In many cases, yes, PNR and reservation numbers are the same. However, for some carriers, the reservation system may generate a separate reservation number and a separate PNR. Therefore, they may sometimes differ from each other.

Can I travel without knowing my PNR?

Theoretically, you can travel without knowing your PNR if you have your boarding pass with you or access to your ticket with full details. However, your PNR can be very helpful, especially in case of problems, flight changes, or the need to recheck in.

Is a PNR required for online check-in?

Yes, most airlines require a PNR number for online check-in. This number allows the system to find your reservation, select your seat on board, and download your boarding pass.

Is a PNR required when filing a complaint or requesting a refund for an airline ticket?

A PNR number is usually required for complaints and ticket refund requests. This number allows airlines to quickly find your booking, check your ticket history, and process refunds or travel modifications.

Is a PNR required to claim compensation for a delayed or canceled flight?

Yes, the PNR number is important when claiming compensation for a delayed or canceled flight. It confirms that the passenger had a valid reservation for the flight. This makes the compensation claim process smoother and increases the chances of a positive outcome.

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