When you modify an issued ticket in systems like Amadeus, Sabre or Travelport Galileo, you usually deal with one of two processes: Reissue or Revalidation.
They may sound similar, but in daily ticketing work, the difference is very important.
What is Revalidation?
Revalidation means updating the existing ticket without issuing a new one.
The ticket number stays the same, and there is no full fare recalculation.
We normally use revalidation in situations like:
1) Schedule Change
If the airline changes the flight in the PNR, but the old flight is still shown on the ticket, you may need to revalidate the ticket so it matches the updated booking.
2) Class Upgrade (in some airlines)
Sometimes, when upgrading to a higher booking class, revalidation is allowed instead of reissuing the ticket. This depends entirely on the airline policy.
3) Restoring a segment cancelled by mistake
If a segment was removed accidentally and then added back, revalidation might solve the mismatch — but again, only if the airline supports it.
Not all airlines allow revalidation in these cases, so it’s always better to check first.
In Amadeus, you can verify if revalidation is permitted using:
HEETTMS: MS air the airline
What is Reissue?
Reissue is different. It means you are financially rebuilding the ticket.
You must reissue when the passenger requests changes that affect pricing or routing, such as:
- Changing the flight number
- Modifying the route
- Changing travel time beyond permitted limits
- Changing the date outside the original fare conditions
In these cases, the system recalculates the fare.
There may be a fare difference, and a change penalty may apply.
A new ticket is issued financially.
Reissue is not just a correction — it’s a full ticket adjustment.
In Simple Terms
Revalidation = technical update.
Reissue = financial reprocessing.
Knowing when to use each one saves time, avoids ADM risks, and keeps your ticketing clean and compliant.
Read Also
The Ultimate Amadeus Commands Guide
The Ultimate Galileo Commands Guide