What do C/N and MSN represent?

What do C/N and MSN represent?

C/N and MSN are unique numerical identifiers assigned to individual aircraft by their manufacturers. Here is what each one means.

C/N – Construction Number

A Construction Number (C/N) is a unique identifier assigned to an aircraft at the time it is built. For most manufacturers, these numbers are assigned in ascending order by production date, meaning a higher construction number generally indicates a more recently produced aircraft.

MSN – Manufacturer Serial Number

Some manufacturers, such as Boeing, assign an additional identifier known as a Manufacturer Serial Number (MSN) alongside the construction number. While both serve as unique identifiers for an individual aircraft, they are separate numbering systems used in parallel.

Together, these identifiers make it possible to track and reference a specific aircraft throughout its entire operational life, regardless of changes to its registration, operator, or owner.

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