Flying for the first time can feel overwhelming, but airports follow a simple sequence. Once you know the steps, the process becomes easy. This guide covers both domestic and international flights from Indian airports.
Before you leave home
Complete web check in on the airline website or app, usually opening 24 to 48 hours before departure. Download or print your boarding pass, and keep a valid photo ID ready. For international flights, carry your passport and visa.
DigiYatra for faster entry
DigiYatra is a facial recognition system available at many Indian airports for domestic flights. Register on the DigiYatra app with your Aadhaar and boarding pass, and you can pass entry and security gates without showing documents repeatedly.
At the terminal entry
Show your ID and boarding pass at the entry gate. Reach two hours early for domestic flights and three hours early for international flights.
Bag drop and check in
If you have check in baggage, go to the airline counter or self bag drop. Your bag is weighed and tagged, and you receive a baggage tag receipt. Keep it safe until you collect your bag.
Emigration for international flights
International travellers pass through emigration, where officers check your passport, visa and boarding pass and stamp your departure.
Security check
Place electronics, liquids and metal items in trays as instructed. Keep your boarding pass in hand. Follow the staff instructions and you will be through quickly.
- Web check in done and boarding pass ready
- Photo ID or passport and visa in hand
- Power bank in cabin bag
- Liquids within limits for international flights
- Reach the gate before boarding closes
Boarding
Check the gate number on the screens and reach the gate early. Boarding usually closes 20 to 25 minutes before departure, and late passengers may not be allowed to fly.
Arrive early, keep your documents in one pouch and follow the signs. Airports are designed to guide you.
Domestic arrival
After landing, follow the signs to baggage claim, check the belt number on the screen and collect your bags. Match the baggage tag number before you leave. Exit through the arrival gate and use prepaid taxis or app based cabs from the designated zones.
International arrival
On arrival abroad, you go through immigration, where officers check your passport, visa and sometimes your return ticket and hotel booking. Then collect your baggage and pass through customs. Declare items as required by local rules.
Tips for senior citizens and families
- Request wheelchair assistance when booking the ticket
- Keep medicines and snacks in the cabin bag
- Choose aisle seats for easier movement
- Keep children close in queues and agree on a meeting point
- Carry a light jacket, as airports and planes can feel cold
Lounges and food
Many credit cards and premium tickets offer lounge access, which makes long waits more comfortable. Otherwise, food courts are available after security. Carry an empty water bottle and fill it after the security check.
Travel stress free
We book tickets and share all airport details before you travel. Read our baggage rules or the international travel checklist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How early should I reach the airport?
Reach two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights.
2. What is web check in?
Web check in lets you confirm your seat and get your boarding pass online before reaching the airport.
3. Is DigiYatra compulsory?
No. DigiYatra is optional and available at many airports for faster entry on domestic flights.
4. When does boarding close?
Boarding usually closes 20 to 25 minutes before departure, though it varies by airline and airport.