On a paper ticket, the airline code and ticket number is located at the bottom center of the ticket. For the example below, you would enter 2150030834 in the ticket number box. The 001 is already provided to the left of the box if American Airlines is selected as the airline flown.

A standard airline ticket number consists of 13 digits that provide specific information about your booking and the issuing carrier. The first three digits are the most important for identification, as they represent the IATA Airline Prefix. For example, any ticket starting with "001" was issued by American Airlines, "006" by Delta, and "016" by United. The next ten digits are a unique serial number assigned to your specific electronic ticket (e-ticket). This number is different from your 6-character PNR (Passenger Name Record) or "confirmation code." While the PNR identifies your folder in the reservation system, the 13-digit ticket number is the actual proof of payment and the financial document that allows you to board. If you have multiple flights on different airlines but booked through a single carrier, all flights will usually share the same 13-digit number. In 2026, you can find this number at the bottom of your boarding pass or in the "Receipt" section of your confirmation email. It is often required when requesting a refund or claiming missing frequent flyer miles.