How Much Alcohol Is Allowed In Domestic Flights in India

Many travellers carry alcohol while flying within India but not everyone is aware of the rules. Indian rules of aviation are simple but you have to follow them to avoid problems at the airport. Here is a clear and easy guide that explains how much alcohol you can carry on domestic flights in India.

How Much Alcohol You Can Carry in Checked Baggage

You can carry alcohol in your checked baggage, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) fixes the main rules. Every adult passenger can bring up to 5 litres of alcohol as a checked luggage. The alcohol must contain from 24% to 70% alcohol content. Anything more than 70% is not permitted because it is unsafe.

All bottles must remain sealed, unopened and in original retail packaging. You cannot pack open or half-used bottles as the airlines will reject them. You also have to pack all the bottles in a way that does not leak or break. Most travellers use bubblewrap or padded bags or soft clothes to protect glass bottles.

Rules for Alcohol With Less Than 24% ABV

Drinks such as wine, beer and some craft drinks contain less than 24% alcohol. You can carry these drinks with no specific quantity limit in a checked baggage. Still, you must keep them in a sealed and properly packed condition.

Is Alcohol Allowed in Cabin Baggage?

Airlines in India follow more strict rules for cabin luggage. In most cases, you are not allowed to carry alcohol in your hand baggage. However, some airlines do permit the use of alcohol as long as you buy it from the airport’s Security Hold Area, after the security screening is completed.

If your airline permits you, you can bring one of your sealed bottles (maximum 1 litre) in a Security Tamper Evident Bag (STEB). You will have to leave the bill inside the bag. Airlines like IndiGo, Vistara, Akasa Air and SpiceJet have their own rules and you should check with your airline before you travel.

Important Points You Must Remember

• You must be of legal drinking age.
• You cannot drink your own alcohol on the flight.
• Airlines can refuse your alcohol if they see leakage, broken packaging, or safety risks.
• Some states in India have strict alcohol laws so check the rules of your destination before travelling.

Final Words

You can carry alcohol on domestic flights in India without having any stress if you follow these rules. Pack your bottles safely and know your airline policies as well as faithfulness to the DGCA guidelines. When you stay prepared, your travel becomes smooth and trouble-free.