A Passenger Name Record (PNR) is a database used in the travel industry to store a traveler’s information. Airlines are required to share PNR data with other airlines and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The information includes personal details and travel plans, and is stored in a Global Distribution System (GDS) accessible by commercial carriers and other companies. The DHS uses the data to track passengers and develop no-fly lists. Other travel industries could also use the PNR system. The sensitive nature of the information has raised concerns about data security.
A passenger name record, sometimes referred to as a PNR, is a complex computer database in which a traveler’s information is stored on a globally accessible network. It is mostly used in the airline industry, but professionals in other areas of the travel industry also rely on it. In the United States, federal law requires airlines to share data collected through the passenger name record with other airlines and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Whenever bookings are made on any major airline, passengers are required to enter certain information about themselves and their travel plans. This is true whether individuals make reservations themselves or through a travel agency. The information typically includes a person’s name, address, email, and itinerary. It may also include other more sensitive information, such as credit card details, requests for special services and other personal data. These details are stored in a huge database, formerly known as the Computer Reservation System (CRS), but now more commonly referred to as the Global Distribution System (GDS).
Commercial airlines generally have access to the GDS through one of several large companies that maintain database information systems. Passenger information is shared with other airlines and sometimes distributed to other travel industry professionals. Originally, this database was developed to make the flight change and baggage tracking process easier for both travelers and airlines. After the terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001, the government began requiring airlines to provide DHS with information collected through the passenger name record. DHS uses the data it collects to track passengers flying to and from the United States and develops no-fly lists from the information, identifying individuals who may pose a security threat.
Other industries, such as hotel chains, commercial railroads, and rental car companies, could also use the Passenger Name Record system to track travelers. Due to the sensitive nature of the information contained in a passenger name record and the fact that so many commercial carriers and other companies have access to that data, many people fear that their personal information could be compromised and fall into the wrong hands. Officials say, however, that the most extreme security measures are being employed to protect databases of passenger name records and that only authorized companies can access them. Regardless, unless a person enters the appropriate information into a passenger’s name record, in most cases, they will be barred from travel by commercial airline, rail, or rental car.
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