Glossary
Definition: A PNR (Passenger Name Record) is a unique alphanumeric booking reference code stored in the airline’s reservation system containing all details of your itinerary, passenger information, and ticket data.
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Term at a glance
| Term | PNR (Passenger Name Record) |
|---|---|
| One-liner | A PNR (Passenger Name Record) is a unique alphanumeric booking reference code stored in the airline’s reservation system containing all details of your itinerary, passenger… |
| Where it matters | Premium-cabin booking decisions, fare-rules interpretation, airline-product comparison. |
| Related concepts | E-Ticket · GDS · Fare Basis Code · Codeshare · Booking Reference |
| Last verified | 2026-05-07 |
Every flight booking creates a PNR, typically a 6-character code like "ABCDEF" that serves as your booking’s unique identifier. The PNR contains: passenger names, flight segments, ticket numbers, contact information, frequent flyer numbers, meal preferences, seat assignments, and any special service requests.
PNR codes are used to retrieve your booking online, at check-in kiosks, and at the airport. They’re also used by airline staff to make changes to your reservation. For codeshare flights, you may have different PNR codes with the marketing and operating airlines.
It’s important to keep your PNR reference accessible throughout your journey. It’s the quickest way to pull up your booking for any changes, and airport staff will ask for it if you need assistance. BookMyBusinessClass provides your PNR along with your e-ticket confirmation, and our agents can use it to make modifications to your booking if your plans change.
In booking practice
At a Glance
| Term | Quick definition | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Pajama Service | Pajama service is a premium amenity offered by select airlines in business and first class, providing… | Read |
| Point-to-Point | Point-to-point flying is a network model where airlines operate direct flights between city pairs without… | Read |
| Overbooking | Overbooking is the airline practice of selling more tickets for a flight than there are seats available,… | Read |
| Polaris (United) | United Airlines' long-haul business class product. Features lie-flat seats with direct aisle access on… | Read |
| Operating Carrier | The operating carrier is the airline that actually operates the aircraft on a codeshare flight, providing the… | Read |
| Positioning Flight | A positioning flight is a short flight taken to reach a departure airport that offers better fares, routings,… | Read |
Related Terms
Pajama service is a premium amenity offered by select airlines in business and first class, providing passengers with comfortable sleepwear to change into during overnight flights.
Point-to-point flying is a network model where airlines operate direct flights between city pairs without requiring passengers to connect through a central hub, offering convenience but fewer route options.
Overbooking is the airline practice of selling more tickets for a flight than there are seats available, based on statistical predictions that some passengers will not show up.
United Airlines' long-haul business class product. Features lie-flat seats with direct aisle access on widebody fleet (787, 777, 767), with newer 787-9 and 787-10 deliveries featuring the upgraded Polaris with sliding-door suites. Includes Polaris lounge access at major US hubs.
The operating carrier is the airline that actually operates the aircraft on a codeshare flight, providing the plane, crew, and onboard service, regardless of which airline’s flight number appears on your ticket.
A positioning flight is a short flight taken to reach a departure airport that offers better fares, routings, or availability for the main journey, often saving significant money on business class tickets.
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