Electronic Ticket

An electronic ticket is the digital version of a traditional paper airline ticket. It stores all booking and flight information securely within the airline’s reservation system and is typically delivered via email or accessed through a mobile app or website. Electronic tickets are now the industry standard across nearly all commercial airlines, especially for international and business class travelers.


What’s Included in an Electronic Ticket?

An electronic ticket contains the essential details required for your flight:
  • Passenger name
  • Booking reference (PNR)
  • Ticket number
  • Operating airline and flight number
  • Departure and arrival airports and times
  • Baggage allowance
  • Seat assignment (if selected)
  • Fare class and rules
  • Any added extras (meals, lounge access, preferred seating)
These details are usually shown in local time and may include airport codes (e.g., JFK or CDG) to avoid confusion in cities with multiple airports.

How Electronic Tickets Work

Once your flight is booked, your electronic ticket is sent to you via email. For check-in:
  • Use the booking reference on the airline’s website or mobile app
  • Present a digital confirmation or barcode at the airport
  • Show the same ID used during booking
In most cases, there’s no need to print the ticket. However, some airports—such as those in India—may still require a printed version due to local regulations.

Benefits of Electronic Tickets

  • Easy access: View and manage tickets via email or phone
  • Secure: Linked to your identity and encrypted within the booking system
  • Flexible: Easily update flights, seating, or personal info online
  • Faster check-in: Supports mobile and kiosk-based processes
  • Eco-friendly: Reduces paper use and unnecessary printing

For Business Class Travelers

  • Ensure your frequent flyer number is linked to your reservation to receive lounge access, priority boarding, and mileage accrual
  • Verify your baggage allowance and fare rules, as they may vary within business class depending on ticket type
  • Make sure your name matches your passport exactly to avoid international check-in issues

If You Lose Access

If you can’t retrieve your electronic ticket due to a device issue or deleted email:
  • Log in to the airline’s website using your booking reference and last name
  • Visit the check-in counter with your ID—they can locate your reservation
  • Save a screenshot or upload your itinerary to cloud storage as a backup

Transferability

Electronic tickets are issued to a specific traveler and are generally non-transferable. Changing the passenger name usually requires airline approval and may incur fees or be restricted by fare rules.