Why am I being asked for a ZIP code?
When you manually key a card number into an X-1PAY terminal (instead of swiping, dipping, or tapping), the screen will ask for the billing ZIP code. That extra step is called Address Verification Service (AVS). Even though fraud is rare in aviation, card brands still treat keyed-in transactions as “higher risk” because the card isn’t physically read by the terminal. Supplying the ZIP code gives the bank one more point of confirmation that the cardholder—and not someone who found the number online—is making the purchase.
Why is AVS a thing?
Security first – AVS adds a quick lock on the door for card-not-present sales.
Faster approvals – A good ZIP match pushes the authorization through on the first try, so crews aren’t stuck re-entering numbers.
Lower processing costs – AVS-verified transactions qualify for the best interchange tier, helping the FBO keep fees (and fuel prices) down.
Best practice: Wherever possible, avoid keying cards altogether. Swiping, dipping (EMV chip), or tapping (contactless NFC) are more secure, cost less to process, and never require a ZIP prompt.
When will X-1FBO ask for a ZIP?
Payment method | Does the terminal prompt for ZIP? | Why or why not? |
Manually Keyed (Typed into the payment field in X-1FBO) | Yes – AVS required | Card data is typed in, so the bank wants an address check. |
Swipe (magstripe) | No | The track data proves the card is present; AVS adds no extra value. |
Dip (EMV chip) | No | The chip generates a unique cryptogram that’s stronger than AVS. |
Tap (contactless NFC) | No | Contactless uses the same chip cryptogram; networks skip AVS entirely. |
Rule of thumb: ZIP prompt = only when you type the card number.
Think about the last time you bought something online: after you typed in your card number and expiration date, the checkout page almost certainly asked for your billing address and ZIP code before it let you click “Place Order.” That extra step isn’t there to slow you down—it’s the store’s way of confirming the card details match what the bank has on file. Manually keying a card at the FBO is no different: because we’re typing the number instead of reading the chip, we need the ZIP to give the bank the same “everything matches” signal, keeping your payment secure and moving along quickly.
Key takeaways for CSRs
Only keyed sales need AVS; physical card readers already carry stronger security.
Frame ZIP entry as a benefit—it makes the sale safer, faster, and cheaper.
Promote swiping, dipping, or tapping—they eliminate the ZIP prompt, speeds transactions and cuts costs.
Stay friendly and concise—one sentence of explanation solves 95 % of questions.