A PNR (Passenger Name Record) code is a unique alphanumeric reference number that identifies your airline booking in the Global Distribution System (GDS). FlightProof generates real PNR codes through the same GDS systems used by travel agencies worldwide. Here's how to verify your PNR code and confirm your onward ticket reservation is active.
What Is a PNR Code?
A PNR code (also called a booking reference, reservation code, or locator) is a 6-character alphanumeric string that serves as your booking's unique ID in the airline's system. When you purchase an onward ticket from FlightProof, your PNR code is generated in real-time through the GDS and emailed to you along with a PDF ticket.
How to Verify Your PNR Code Online
You can verify your PNR code in several ways:
1. On the Airline's Website
- Go to the airline's official website (the airline your reservation is booked with)
- Find the "Manage Booking", "My Trips", or "Check-In" section
- Enter your PNR code and the last name from your booking
- The system will display your active reservation with your flight details
2. Through a GDS Terminal
Travel agencies and airline staff use GDS terminals (Sabre, Amadeus, Galileo) to verify bookings. Any travel agent can look up your PNR and confirm it's active. This is the same method immigration officers and airline check-in agents use.
3. At the Airport Kiosk
When you arrive at the airport, self-service kiosks allow you to enter your PNR code to check in or retrieve your booking details. If your PNR is valid, the kiosk will display your reservation.
What Information Does Your PNR Show?
When your PNR is verified, it displays the following details:
- Passenger name — As provided during booking (must match your passport)
- Flight number and airline — The specific flight reserved
- Departure and arrival airports — Your booked route
- Flight date and time — Your scheduled departure
- Booking status — Confirmed/active (not cancelled)
- Ticket status — Will show as a reservation (not a fully paid ticket)
Is an Unpaid Reservation Different From a Paid Ticket in the System?
Yes — and this is important to understand. In the GDS system, your PNR will show a reservation status of "HK" (holding confirmed) but the ticket status may show as "OPEN" or "UNPAID." This is normal and expected for onward ticket reservations. Immigration officers understand that not all reservations are fully paid tickets — they only need to see that you have a confirmed booking to leave the country.
What If Your PNR Doesn't Show Up?
While rare, there are a few reasons a PNR might not immediately appear in the airline's system:
- Timing: PNR codes are generated in real-time but may take a few minutes to propagate across all GDS systems
- Airline website: Some airline websites only display paid tickets in "Manage Booking" — try a different airline's system or a third-party checker like CheckMyTrip
- Cancellation: If the validity period has expired, the reservation has been automatically cancelled
If your PNR still doesn't show after 30 minutes, please contact us at [email protected] and we'll investigate immediately.