India

The Indian airport sector is one of the most dynamic and fastest-growing in the world. With an increasing number of domestic and international passengers, India has invested significantly in the expansion and modernization of its airports. Air traffic in the country is driven by a rising middle class, domestic and international tourism, as well as trade and business.

The main domestic regulatory bodies overseeing the civil aviation sector in India are:

• Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA): The primary regulatory body for civil aviation in India, responsible for safety, regulation, and oversight of all air operations, including airline licensing, flight safety, and passenger regulations.
• Airports Authority of India (AAI): Manages the majority of Indian civil airports, air navigation infrastructure, and air traffic control services.

• Passport: must have at least 6 months of validity on entry and two blank pages.
• Tourist e-Visa: most tourists apply for the electronic visa on the Indian government's official website before travelling. There are 30-day (double entry), 1-year and 5-year (multiple entry) options.
• e-Arrival Card: since 1 October 2025, foreign nationals fill in the electronic arrival card online up to 72 hours before entering India (on the official website or the Su-Swagatam app).
• Other purposes: business, study, work and medical treatment have their own visas.
• On arrival: show your passport and the e-Visa confirmation (printed or on your phone).

In India, rights in case of delays, cancellations and denied boarding are set out in the DGCA rule CAR Section 3, Series M, Part IV, which applies to Indian airlines (on international flights, the Montreal Convention and the rules of the destination country also apply).

• Meals and refreshments: depending on the flight length, from a 2-hour delay (flights up to 2.5 hours), 3 hours (flights up to 5 hours) or 4 hours (longer flights).
• Delays of more than 6 hours: if the delay is announced less than 24 hours in advance, the airline must offer another flight departing within 6 hours or a full refund.
• Hotel: for delays of more than 24 hours, or more than 6 hours on flights scheduled between 8 pm and 3 am.
• Cancellation: the airline must offer another flight; if it does not, it pays compensation on top of a full refund of the ticket, except in extraordinary circumstances.
• Denied boarding (overbooking): an alternative flight and compensation of up to 20,000 rupees, depending on the arrival delay.
• Information: the airline must report delays and cancellations as early as possible and explain passengers' rights.

Baggage regulations in India, especially for domestic flights, are defined by individual airlines but follow guidelines established by the DGCA. There is no national law that specifically mandates a free carry-on allowance, but all airlines include one in their fares.

• Carry-on Baggage: Generally, passengers are entitled to one free piece of carry-on baggage, the dimensions and weight limits of which vary by airline (typically between 7-10 kg).
• Checked Baggage: The checked baggage allowance also varies significantly depending on the airline and the class of travel. Economy fares usually allow an allowance of 15-20 kg, while business and first classes permit higher limits.
• Extra Fees: If baggage exceeds the permitted allowance, airlines charge fees for excess weight and/or additional pieces. These fees are set by the airlines themselves and can be quite high. It is recommended to check the specific airline's baggage policy before traveling.
• Prohibited Items: There are strict regulations regarding items that cannot be carried in carry-on or checked baggage, such as flammable materials, explosives, sharp objects, among others.

Bringing dogs and cats into India is controlled by the Animal Quarantine and Certification Service (AQCS), under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, and by customs. The rules are strict and require planning:

• Prior authorisation (NOC): an advance authorisation (Advance NOC) from AQCS, requested before the trip, is mandatory; without it the airline will not accept the animal. Conditions vary with the purpose (transfer of residence, return to India or a short stay).
• Documents: microchip (ISO 11784/11785), an official health certificate from the country of origin and a rabies vaccination given at least 30 days and no more than 1 year before arrival.
• Airline: each airline decides whether it accepts the animal, which breeds and what weight, and whether it travels in the cabin or the hold; book early.
• Before travelling: check the current requirements on the AQCS website or with the Indian embassy, as the rules can change.

• Children travelling alone: as a rule, children under 5 cannot travel alone; from 5 to 12, only with the airline's unaccompanied-minor service, which charges a fee and looks after the child from boarding until handover to the responsible adult at the destination. Bring the parents' authorisation and the details of whoever will collect the child.
• Travelling with one parent or another adult: no authorisation is legally required, but it is advisable to carry a consent letter from the absent parent and the birth certificate, especially on international flights.
• International travel: the rules of the destination country and of the airline also apply.

India has made progress in implementing accessibility measures for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility, as well as the elderly, aiming to ensure a more inclusive travel experience.

• Airport Accessibility:
• Wheelchairs: Indian airports generally offer wheelchair services for elderly passengers and persons with reduced mobility. This service must be requested in advance from the airline during flight booking or at least 24-48 hours before the flight.
• Adapted Facilities: Many modern airports in India feature accessible restrooms, ramps, and elevators to facilitate access.
• Boarding/Disembarking Assistance: Airport and airline staff provide assistance during boarding and disembarking.
• In-flight Rights:
• Priority Seating: While not universally guaranteed at no extra cost, some airlines may offer priority or more accessible seating for the elderly or passengers with special needs upon prior request.
• In-flight Assistance: Cabin crew are trained to provide assistance to passengers needing help, such as seating or restroom access.
• Medication and Equipment: Passengers relying on medical equipment (such as CPAPs) or requiring medication must notify the airline in advance and carry the necessary documentation.
• Accessibility Legislation: Although India has laws such as the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, effective implementation in air transport and airport services can vary. Airlines are guided by the DGCA to provide adequate services for passengers with special needs.

Recommendation: It is essential for elderly or mobility-impaired passengers to inform the airline of their specific needs at the time of booking or as far in advance as possible to ensure all arrangements are made.

• Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA): rules (CAR) on delays, cancellations, denied boarding and accessibility.
• Official Indian e-Visa portal: the only official website for e-Visa applications.
• Ministry of Civil Aviation
• Airports Authority of India (AAI)
• Animal Quarantine and Certification Service (AQCS): bringing in dogs and cats.