South Korea to Ask for API Before Ticketing Issue

As countries around the world join the fight against terrorism and strive to improve their border security, South Korea make changes following a test period that saw them refuse 157 travellers from Thailand.

Previously, South Korea received passenger data via APIS after flights had left the originating airport. Then, if any passenger was ‘flagged’, airlines would have to return them to the point of departure, causing delays and incurring expense.

Now, the changes suggest that South Korea will require Advance Passenger Information before tickets are issued. The information will be screened by the ministry and only after approval, will tickets be sold to the passengers.

A statement from the South Korean Ministry said that the aim is to ‘strengthen the aviation safety and border security by analysing the passenger information in advance.’