PNR

Term from Travel Agencies industry explained for recruiters

PNR, which stands for Passenger Name Record, is a basic building block of the travel industry. It's like a digital folder that contains all the important information about a traveler's trip. Think of it as a master travel file that includes details like flight bookings, hotel reservations, car rentals, and special requests. Travel agents and airline staff work with PNRs daily to manage bookings and help travelers. This system is used across different booking platforms like Amadeus, Sabre, or Galileo, which are the main computer systems travel agencies use to make reservations.

Examples in Resumes

Managed over 200 PNR records daily using Amadeus system

Resolved complex PNR modifications and booking issues for VIP clients

Trained new staff on PNR creation and management in Sabre

Typical job title: "Travel Consultants"

Also try searching for:

Travel Agent Reservation Specialist Travel Coordinator Booking Agent Travel Consultant Air Ticketing Specialist GDS Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a complex multi-city booking with mixed airlines and special requirements?

Expected Answer: A senior agent should explain the process of creating split PNRs if needed, managing different airline policies, ensuring minimum connection times, and handling special requests while keeping the booking organized and accessible.

Q: How do you train junior staff on PNR management and troubleshooting?

Expected Answer: Should discuss creating training materials, explaining common pitfalls, teaching best practices for PNR organization, and methods for reviewing and correcting junior staff's work.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What steps do you take when modifying an existing PNR?

Expected Answer: Should explain checking fare rules, understanding change penalties, properly documenting changes, and ensuring all segments are correctly synchronized.

Q: How do you handle a queue of urgent PNR modifications during peak time?

Expected Answer: Should discuss prioritization strategies, efficient use of GDS commands, managing client expectations, and maintaining accuracy under pressure.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the essential elements that must be included in a PNR?

Expected Answer: Should list basic components like passenger names, contact details, itinerary details, ticketing time limit, and any special requests or remarks.

Q: How do you create a basic round-trip PNR?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the step-by-step process of creating a simple booking, including passenger info entry, flight selection, and basic PNR finalization.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-1 years)

  • Basic PNR creation and modification
  • Simple flight bookings
  • Customer service basics
  • Understanding of basic fare rules

Mid (1-3 years)

  • Complex itinerary management
  • Handling schedule changes
  • Multiple GDS proficiency
  • Group booking handling

Senior (3+ years)

  • Advanced fare construction
  • Staff training and supervision
  • Crisis management
  • Complex international bookings

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of major GDS systems (Amadeus, Sabre, etc.)
  • Unfamiliarity with airline booking codes and fare rules
  • Poor attention to detail in booking management
  • Lack of experience with international travel requirements