IATA number
An IATA number (or IATA Numeric Code) is a unique identifier assigned to IATA-certified travel agencies that want to distribute air tickets and/or gain industry recognition.
An IATA number is assigned to those travel agencies that underwent IATA accreditation, either full or partial. Both programs grant certified agents worldwide recognition as trustworthy and financially viable partners, allowing them to join the global industry community, but only the full IATA accreditation package allows travel businesses to issue tickets on behalf of airlines and process transactions via the Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP).
These are the accepted formats for IATA verification:
- A 7- or 8-digit passenger agency IATA number: Given to agencies that issue tickets for air travelers. This number confirms the agency’s accreditation and allows it to operate within the international passenger travel network.
- A 11- or 12-digit cargo agency IATA number: Assigned to agencies handling air freight and cargo shipments. It serves the same purpose as passenger agency numbers but applies specifically to cargo operations.
- A 10-digit travel agent ID: Issued to individual travel agents. This number verifies that the agent is authorized to sell airline tickets on behalf of their accredited agency and represents the agency’s IATA accreditation in personal transactions.
IATA codes should not be confused with ICAO codes, which are assigned to airlines and airports for operational purposes, or with the ARC number, which applies only to U.S.-based agencies.
