What is Advanced Passenger Information (API)?

Advanced Passenger Information (API) is a system designed to collect and share personal data from passengers. The passenger data is required to create a clear picture of who is flying and to ensure their identity can be verified. For passengers, it’s important to enter this information accurately, as errors could delay their travel or entry into another country. The provided data helps airlines and border control agencies improve efficiency and reduce identity fraud. It’s also an important step in facilitating a faster and more secure boarding process. With API, the journey starts well before passengers reach the airport.

Standard API data includes:

• Full Name
  As shown on the travel document (usually identity document or passport): first name, middle name(s), and last name.
• Date of Birth
  In the format used by the country’s documentation.
• Gender
  As indicated in the passport or official ID.
• Nationality/Citizenship
  The country that issued the passport or travel document.
• Travel Document Details
  Document type (e.g., passport), number, issuing country, and expiration date.
• Flight Information
  Flight number, departure airport, destination, and date of travel.
• Country of Residence
  Where the passenger currently lives, often used for risk assessment and immigration screening.
• Destination Address (for some countries)
  For example, the address where the passenger will be staying in the U.S.

Optional or additional (depending on country regulations):

• Place of Birth
• Visa details (if applicable)
• Redress or Known Traveler Numbers (e.g., for the U.S. DHS TRIP program)
• Passenger Name Record (PNR) data, which may include:
  Booking reference, seat number, baggage info, contact details, and payment method

Why this data matters

Why is all this information required? In short: to ensure security and compliance. By sending this information in advance, airlines help authorities screen passengers before they arrive, ensuring the conditions for travels are met (VISA or other travel authorizations), identify potential threats, and enforce immigration laws efficiently.