Cargo and ACMI operations don’t include passengers — but even when a flight carries only crew, Advance Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) submissions may still be required.

Compliance in this area can be confusing — especially as rules differ from country to country. In this article, we outline the essentials of API-PNR submission requirements for crew, explain where operators often encounter issues, and share a resource that simplifies compliance: the Crew Declaration Guide, covering API PNR submission requirements across 60+ countries.

Quick Reminder: What is API and PNR Data?

Advance Passenger Information (API):

Basic identification and travel details collected before departure, such as passport data (name, date of birth, nationality) and flight information.

Passenger Name Record (PNR):

Detailed booking data generated during the reservation process, in addition to identity and travel data. It can include itinerary, contact details, payment method, and other travel-related information.

While passenger flights can be subject to API and PNR submissions, the rules for crew declarations differ slightly:

  • PNR is linked to reservation systems, so it only applies to passengers. However, some countries still require a PNR submission for zero-pax flights (also referred to as ferry flights) to confirm no passengers are on board.
  • API applies to both passengers and crew, though not all states that require passenger API also demand it for crew.

This lack of standardization creates one of the main sources of compliance uncertainty for cargo and ACMI operators.

API PNR declaration risks

Failure to comply with crew-related API or zero-pax PNR regulations can result in:

  • Delays during arrival processing
  • Increased scrutiny from border control
  • Fines or administrative penalties
  • Legal liability for the operator

Keeping an overview of API and PNR regulations is difficult — especially as more countries introduce or expand passenger and crew data requirements. With Streamlane, submissions are automated and always aligned with the latest rules, so you’re covered by default. No chasing updates, no manual work — just peace of mind.

Our Crew Declaration Guide

To support cargo and ACMI operators in navigating these regulations, we’ve developed a Crew Declaration Guide — a downloadable resource that details the crew submission requirements of over 60 countries.

Inside the guide, you’ll find:

  • A breakdown of crew-specific declaration requirements
  • The submission rules for each country, including timelines and required data
  • Contact information for the relevant state authorities

Automate Your Compliance with Streamlane

Wherever you fly, Streamlane takes the hassle out of API-PNR compliance. We automatically retrieve and send your passenger and crew data to the right authorities — fully aligned with local requirements, every time. No manual work, no guesswork, no missed updates. With Streamlane, you save time and keep your focus where it belongs: on your operations.