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Airfare

How to verify your airline ticket after booking

Quick answer

After booking a flight, do five quick checks within 24 hours: look up the booking on the airline's own site, confirm names match passports, read the fare class, verify baggage allowance, and save the ticket number.

Last updated

Most flight bookings go through smoothly, but the few that have problems are easier to fix in the first 24 hours than at the airport. The checks below take 10 minutes and catch the issues that can otherwise turn a trip into a crisis at check-in.

If any check fails, contact the booking site or airline immediately. Most carriers allow free corrections on minor name spelling errors within 24–48 hours of booking; after that, fixes may carry fees or rebooking requirements.

Checklist

  1. Look up the booking on the airline's own site

    Use the confirmation number to find your booking on the operating airline's "Manage My Booking" page. If it does not appear within 24 hours, escalate.

  2. Confirm every traveler's name matches their passport exactly

    Including middle names if shown on the passport. Even one-character differences can cause check-in problems.

  3. Read the fare class and rules

    Confirm the fare-class restrictions match what you expected — checked bags included, change rules, refundability.

  4. Verify baggage allowance per traveler

    Each traveler's bag allowance follows their fare class. Confirm before paying for extras at check-in.

  5. Save the airline ticket number (not just the booking confirmation)

    The 13-digit ticket number is what airlines and agents use for changes. The 6-character confirmation/PNR is for the booking; the ticket number is for the seat.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a confirmation number and a ticket number?
The confirmation number (also called PNR) is a 6-character alphanumeric code that identifies your booking. The ticket number is a 13-digit number that identifies each individual seat on the booking. Airlines need the ticket number for changes and refunds.
What if my name on the ticket has a typo?
Most airlines allow free corrections on minor typos (1–3 characters) within 24–48 hours of booking. After that, fixes may carry fees ($50–$200) or require rebooking. Catch and fix typos immediately.
What if my booking does not appear on the airline site?
Call the booking site for the airline confirmation number, then call the airline directly. If the airline has no record after 48 hours, file a credit-card chargeback. Time matters; the longer you wait, the harder dispute gets.