PNR — Passenger Name Record

PNR — Passenger Name Record

The PNR is the atomic data unit of aviation reservation systems. This record, which holds all information relating to a booking, forms the foundation of standardised data exchange between airlines, GDS platforms and travel agents.

What a PNR Contains

A PNR typically includes: passenger name and contact details; flight segments (flight number, date, cabin class); ticketing and payment information; SSR (Special Service Request) items — wheelchair, special meal, medical assistance etc.; OSI (Other Service Information) notes; emergency contact; travel agency reference.

The Six-Character PNR Code

Each PNR is identified by a six-character alphanumeric reference code automatically generated by the system at the time of booking (e.g. ABC123). This code is also known as a booking reference or record locator and is the primary reference passengers use at check-in.

GDS Distribution

When GDS platforms such as Amadeus, Sabre and Travelport create a booking, they simultaneously trigger a PNR in the airline's PSS. PNR synchronisation across multiple systems is critical, particularly in codeshare and interline scenarios.

Privacy and Security

PNR data is regulated under GDPR in Europe and API (Advance Passenger Information) rules in the United States. Airlines are legally required to share PNRs of passengers crossing EU borders with relevant national authorities. The sensitive information a PNR contains — passport number, payment details, travel history — makes this record a significant data protection concern.