Can I fly in India with an Aadhaar card?
Yes, you can fly within India using an Aadhaar card as a valid identity document. Aadhaar is accepted by BCAS and widely recognized by major Indian airlines for domestic air travel as one of the officially approved government-issued photo IDs. This means passengers flying anywhere within Indiasuch as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, or Kochican use an Aadhaar card during airport entry, check-in, and security screening
Nevertheless, Aadhaar is valid only for domestic flights. It cannot be employed in international traveling, immigration processes, or boarding aircraft that depart from India to a foreign country. In all international flights, a passport is required.
When Can You Use an Aadhaar Card at the Airport?
1. Airport entry
At the entrance gate, CISF security personnel will verify your Aadhaar card along with your flight ticket (physical or digital). When checking in, your Aadhaar name should ideally match your booking name to avoid delays during verification
2. Check-in
Aadhaar is accepted as a valid identity document when issuing boarding passes, whether at the airline desk or at a self-service counter.
3. Security screening
CISF officers are free to demand identity checking during security checks. Aadhaar is fully accepted for this step.
4. DigiYatra e-gates
DigiYatra is a voluntary biometric boarding system. Aadhaar can be used for verification, but it is not mandatory, as passengers may also register using other government-issued IDs such as a passport or driving licence, depending on airport facilities.
Who Can Use an Aadhaar Card for Flying?
• Indian citizens
Aadhaar is popular for local travel.
• NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) with Aadhaar
The holders of an Aadhaar card may utilize the card on domestic flights. (Note: Not every NRI is eligible for Aadhaar.)
• Foreign nationals
Foreign nationals cannot use Aadhaar because they are not eligible to obtain one. They will have to use their passport to identify themselves.
When Is an Aadhaar Card Not Enough?
- International flight (passport required)
- If the name on your ticket and that on your Aadhaar are different.
- Children below a certain age are generally not required to carry a photo ID if they are traveling with a parent or guardian, subject to airline-specific policies.
Conclusion
An Aadhaar card is fully valid for domestic air travel in India; it facilitates an easy entry to the airports, check-in, and even security check-in. However, it is not valid for international travel nor does it substitute a passport for traveling outside India. As long as your Aadhaar details match your booking, you can travel smoothly within India using it as your primary ID.
