Although flying domestically is more convenient than traveling abroad, it is still necessary to learn about domestic flight rules, especially what documents are required. Passports are a universally acceptable travel document, but do we need a passport to travel within India? This article will clarify exactly what you need and don’t need to board a domestic flight. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a first-timer, knowing these requirements ensures a smoother and stress-free journey.
Is Passport Required for Domestic Flights?
No. According to India’s aviation security regulations, passengers can present any government-issued photo ID to board a domestic flight, such as Aadhaar cards, voter IDs, driver’s licenses, etc. The passport remains just one of many accepted documents, not a compulsory one. So, a passport is usually not required for Indian citizens to travel within the country. However, foreign nationals who are residing in or visiting India should show a valid passport along with a relevant visa for identity verification.
Other Required Documents for Domestic Flight
Although passports are not required, you must present a government-issued primary identity document along with an air ticket at airline check-in counters and security checkpoints. The authorities and airlines will verify these documents rigorously. Next are examples of the documents required for a domestic flight.
It is a biometric ID issued to Indian citizens by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). It carries a unique 12-digit identification number that is generated according to a person’s date of birth, place of birth, gender, and other essential biometric details, eliminating the risk of duplication and fraud. Moreover, if you have an e-Aadhaar, a digital version of the Aadhaar card, it is suggested to contact the airline and verify whether it is acceptable for boarding the airplane.
This document is issued by the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) of each state, allowing the license holders to legally drive a vehicle. It consists of a passport-style photograph, personal information, and signature/thumb impressions, making it an acceptable document for domestic flights.
The voter’s ID, also known as the Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC), is distributed by the Election Commission to voters in India. It is initially used for voter identification on Election Day. Due to the unique identification number, personal details, and advanced security features, it is also accepted in many public and official transactions, including ticket booking and traveling.
The PAN card, or Permanent Account Number, is an essential financial document issued by the Income Tax Department. It contains a taxpayer’s personal information and photograph. As a unique identifier for every Indian citizen, it could be used as a domestic travel document.
Please note that photocopies or scanned copies are unacceptable, so you must bring an original document to board the airplane.
Documents for Minors on Domestic Flight
In India, the age of majority is 18. Minors under 18 are usually not required to present any photo ID when flying within India with parents or guardians, which makes family travel easier. However, some airlines might request extra documents to verify the child’s identity, especially for minors who travel alone or without parents/legal guardians. Documents required for a domestic flight include:
- Birth Certificate
It shows an individual’s name, date of birth, place of birth, father’s name, and mother’s name, serving as important proof of age and parentage. The birth certificate is recommended, no matter how old the child is and who he/she is traveling with.
- School ID
Besides the school information, a school ID also carries the student’s name and photo, making it a practical alternative to government-issued IDs for school-aged children.
- Notarized Affidavit
Unaccompanied children should present parental consent from their parents or guardians. There is no fixed format for the consent letter, but it should include the date of writing, names of the parents, child, and the accompanying adult, travel date, destination, contact, and signature.
- Letter from School
It might be required for minors going on a group travel, such as a school trip or study tour. The letter should list the names of the students and the trip details.
Why do Some Carry Passport for Domestic Flight
Although a passport is not a mandatory document for domestic flights, some people still carry it for the following reasons.
- International Connections
Travelers who plan to catch an onward international flight should retain passports for seamless transfers. For example, passengers might take a domestic flight to Mumbai Airport and then fly abroad. In this case, you will undergo combined ID checks, and passports are needed. Please note that the passport must satisfy the entry requirements of your destination, like sufficient validity and blank pages.
- Airline Policies
According to the international air travel regulations, non-Indian citizens (even legal residents) must show a valid passport to board an airplane, even if they fly within India. It aims to verify a foreigner’s identity and citizenship.
- Consistency and Habit
Passports are universal identity documents. Frequent traveler tend to bring a passport despite their destination in order to avoid taking multiple documents. Moreover, if your national ID is lost or rejected, a passport is perfect for backup identification.
- High-security Routes
If you fly to sensitive regions like Jammu, Kashmir, etc., you may face stricter checks. Under such conditions, passports are more reliable as they will go through quicker verification at the airport checkpoint or hotel.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Traveling Within India
Although the requirements and process for domestic flights are more relaxed than those of an international flight, any minor error can interrupt your journey. Learning about the common mistakes and avoiding them can ensure a smooth trip.
- Forget Valid Identification
Imagine that you arrive at the airport only to find that your identification is lost or expired. You will be rejected to get on the airplane. Therefore, it is advised to create a travel checklist and prepare all the required documents before traveling. Moreover, check the validity of the document and renew it if necessary.
- Have an Unmatched Name
Passengers whose names on the air ticket and the identification are different will not be allowed to board. To avoid this mistake, please verify the names before booking. When there is any discrepancy, contact the airline for correction.
- Ignore Airline-specific Rules
Documents required for domestic flight might vary by airline. For example, budget carriers may not accept school IDs. Make sure to check the official website of the airline or call its helpline before traveling.
- Underestimate Airport Time
It is recommended to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours earlier, especially in metro airports like Delhi or Bengaluru as the check-in queues, ID checks, and security checks can take 60–90 minutes.
- Carry Prohibited Items
The security check measures for taking a plane are very strict. Carrying any prohibited goods will lead to fines or prevent you from getting on the plane. Therefore, it is necessary to check the specific requirements of the airline and your destination and avoid packing them in your luggage, such as explosives, excessive cosmetics, counterfeit and pirated goods, and so on.
- Skip Document Prints
While e-tickets are getting more and more popular, some airports might require printed boarding passes or baggage tags for entry. That is also why we advise you to arrive earlier because it might take more time when you have to wait in a long line.
FAQ
Q: Is RTPCR necessary for domestic flights?
A: No. India has lifted the RT-PCR test for domestic flights in 2022, but tourists visiting the country might be required and the result must be negative.
Q: Is e-pass required to travel to Delhi?
A: It depends on the way of travel. The e-pass acts as a legal permit for inter-state travel under special circumstances like the Covid-19 pandemic, but if you hold a confirmed flight/train ticket to Delhi, an e-pass is not required.
Q: Are digital IDs accepted for domestic flights in India?
A: Yes. Digital IDs like e-Aadhaar, DigiLocker-stored IDs, and m-Parivahan (digital license) are valid nationwide, but it is also advisable to bring a physical ID along with the digital one in case of any technical issues at security checks.
Q: Is Aadhaar card enough for domestic flights?
A: Yes. The Aadhaar card is a national ID. Both physical and electronic versions are acceptable for domestic flight as per airline policies.
Conclsuion
Now you must have found out the answer to “Do we need a passport for domestic flights?”. While passports are acceptable, they’re not mandatory depending on your nationality and destination. In terms of documents required for domestic flights, India prioritizes convenience without compromising security. Indian citizens can fly within the country with an Aadhaar card, driver’s license, voter ID, or PAN card. Make sure to verify the specific airline policies before traveling and arrive earlier. By packing the right documents and avoiding common errors, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free journey.
Erin Lo