What documents are required for domestic flights in India?
When traveling in India, you should be aware of what travel documents you are going to present at the airport. Even for domestic flights, airlines and airport security require valid identification to verify your identity before boarding. This is a list of detailed guides on the needed documents to fly within India.
1. Valid Air Ticket or Boarding Pass
The most important and first thing you need is your confirmed air ticket or boarding pass. Airlines have also adopted an e-ticket, which can be displayed on your mobile phone or printed. This ticket will give you access to the terminal of the airport, and you can check in your baggage. Other airports also demand that you present the ticket at the main entrance gate, so have it with you always.
2. Government-Issued Photo Identification
All passengers are required to have a photo ID document. This ensures that the name on your ticket matches the name on your identification document. The ID proofs that are generally accepted among Indian citizens include:
- Aadhaar Card or digital version through the mAadhaar app
- Passport (it is not mandatory, but it is generally accepted)
- A voter ID card, which is issued by the Election Commission of India.
- Driving License with photo
- PAN Card with photograph
- A photo ID card that has been issued by the Central or State Government, Public Sector units, or recognized educational institutions.
- Bank passbooks with photo and seal were accepted in the past but are no longer widely accepted at most airports. They should not be relied upon as a primary ID
You should always carry the original ID; photocopies or scanned versions are not accepted at most airports. Most airports do not accept scanned or photocopied IDs. Only digital IDs from approved government apps like DigiLocker or mAadhaar may be accepted.
3. Documents for Foreign Nationals
Foreigners are required to have a valid passport as their main form of identification when using domestic flights in India. Foreign nationals must present their passport as the primary ID. OCI/PIO cards may be carried as supporting documents but cannot replace the passport. In case you possess an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or Person of Indian Origin (PIO) card, you are also expected to carry it together with your passport.
4. Documents for Children and Infants
In the case of infants (under the age of 2 years) who are traveling with their parents, a birth certificate or hospital discharge certificate is usually sufficient to verify the infant’s age and identity.
In the case of children between 2 and 12 years, schools provide photo ID cards, which are accepted by a majority of airlines. Airlines might demand more documents, like a consent form from parents/guardians, in case the child is alone (as an unaccompanied minor).
5. Name Match Between Ticket and ID
The name on your air ticket must exactly match your ID. Even minor spelling differences can cause boarding issues. In case of a mismatch, you need to address your airline beforehand to correct it.
6. Digital ID and Online Verification
In India, there are a few airports that allow the use of digital IDs with government applications such as DigiLocker or mAadhaar, through which you can display your ID electronically. However, digital IDs are not accepted at all airports, so always carry a physical ID as a backup.
7. Additional Travel Tips
- Always carry your documents with you, as you will be required at the entry gate, check-in counter, as well as security check.
- Always carry your original ID; photos or photocopies saved on your phone may not be accepted.
- Get to the airport early enough in case some extra verification is required.
- Assistance may be necessary in that there are special needs passengers, elderly travelers, or passengers with medical equipment.
In Summary
Traveling within India by air requires a ticket and a photo ID issued by the government. Foreign nationals should carry their passport, and children are expected to have age-related ID evidence. Keeping your documents original, valid, and correctly matched to your name will ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience across India.
