A tail number refers to an identification registration code (letters, numbers, or both) painted on an aircraft, frequently on the tail.

Tail numbers can represent:

  • An aircraft registration number (civil aviation)
  • United States military aircraft serials

See also

  • Vehicle Identification Number
  • Hull number
  • Pennant number
  • Tail code, which is not a unique identifier
  • Fin flash, also called tail flash