According to the introduction by frontier inspection personnel, the Advance Passenger Information (API) system requires airlines that operate international flights to transmit the electronic information of their passengers (including crew members) via network to the government department of the destination country. This allows border inspection stations to pre-record information before the actual entry and exit of passengers. Currently, many countries around the world including Australia, United States, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea have implemented the API system with good results.
The activation of the API system provides an effective auxiliary means to enhance the ability of investigation and warning as well as the speed of frontier inspection. It will greatly simplify the procedures for passengers to go through customs clearance formalities and further maximize safety efficiency.
The information of the flight passengers that needs to be reported in advance includes: name, nationality, gender, date of birth, passport type, passport number, passport expiration date, person category, initial boarding airport, final off-boarding airport, etc. If the airline fails to report within the specified time limit or reports incorrectly, it will be fined up to 30,000 yuan according to regulations.