What you need to know about e-tickets

What is e-ticketing?

E-ticketing is a service that creates a convenient electronic airline ticket, rather than the traditional paper or card ticket. All information that is printed on a paper ticket is stored electronically in the airline's computer database.

How does it work?

1) Make your flight arrangements with your Horizon Travel LLC agent.

2) When you're ready to purchase a ticket, your travel agent sends an electronic message to the airline confirming that your reservation has been ticketed.

3) Your travel agent will provide you with a confirmation number and will fax or e-mail a copy of your itinerary for use as supporting documentation for reimbursement purposes.

4) When you check-in for your flight, provide the gate agent with your confirmation number and photo identification. The gate agent will then issue your boarding pass when applicable.

When can I not use an e-ticket?

Some International flights
many other international flights still require paper tickets. Customs agents require, however, that you have in your possession proof of your scheduled return. So if you travel internationally with an e-ticket, be sure to have a copy of your full itinerary to present upon demand.

Flying on more than one airline
If you are traveling outbound on one airline and returning on another, e-ticketing may not be allowed. However, if the two airlines are part of an alliance, it may be possible. Your Horizon Travel LLC agent will always recommend e-tickets whenever they are available.

Did you know?

Making changes to your e-ticket will save you time and expense. Instead of having to deliver or mail your flight coupons to your Horizon Travel LLC agent when a change is made to your reservation, you need only advise of the required change and your agent will handle the rest.

Airlines currently charge approximately $70 to research and refund a lost paper ticket. Using e-tickets eliminates the worry of losing or forgetting your ticket.

Why would I want an E-Ticket?

When you're in a rush, if you buy your tickets very close to your travel date, you might do very well to purchase an e-ticket. If you're the type who doesn't feel secure without the physical evidence of a regular paper ticket in-hand or are nervous regarding the new strict security measures, then e-tickets might not be for you.

The Convenience

E-Tickets are convenient. Late bookings are easy; make a phone call, get your confirmation faxed to you or print it out from online, and it's over. No worrying about the ticket arriving in the mail. You can easily purchase tickets for other people in disparate locations, just make sure you get them the official confirmation printout. For late purchases, there's absolutely minimum hassle; no scurry to the local ticket office. Online booking can be even more convenient, as addressed below.

E-Ticket Kiosks

Another advantage to getting an e-ticket is being able to use new self-service kiosks provided at many airports. Rather than waiting in line at check-in, you can insert your credit card and get your boarding pass from these new automated machines. You will be given a receipt, which you should carry with you; but you will still need to show valid identification before boarding the plane.

The information above is provided as a service and any details and/or industry rules and regulations are subject to change at any time. Please contact your Horizon Travel LLC agent with any questions.