You are all set for travel, booked your tickets, and that cab too. Now, if you’re feeling a bit nervous as you step into an airport for the first time, you’re not alone. It’s not as complicated as it looks. If you’re flying from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), India’s busiest aviation hub, a little preparation can make all the difference. From booking your flight to navigating security checks and boarding your plane, here’s everything you need to know to take off with confidence.
Documents and packingFirst thing first. Make sure that you are carrying all the valid and correct identification documents. For domestic flights, valid photo ID such as Aadhaar, voter ID, PAN, or driving licence will suffice, whereas for international flights, you will need your passport and a valid visa, depending on your destination.
Keep a copy of your ticket, either printed or available on your mobile phone. Then proceed to the terminal building.
As for packing, you know you can't carry all your favourite things with you. Also, first check your airline’s baggage allowance, as it varies by airline and class of travel. As a general rule:
Cabin baggage should not exceed 7kg for economy class.
Checked-in baggage weight limits range between 15–25kg on domestic flights.
Avoid carrying prohibited items in your hand luggage such as scissors, nail cutters, knives, large liquid containers (more than 100ml), or batteries that aren’t permitted. Power banks and lighters should always go in hand luggage, not in checked baggage.
Entry, check-in, and boarding pass
It's always advised that you reach the airport at least 2–3 hours before your flight time. At the entry gate, show your ID and ticket to security personnel.
Once inside, proceed to your airline’s check-in counter or self check-in kiosks to get your boarding pass and drop off your check-in luggage (if any).
If you’ve checked in online, you can print your boarding pass at kiosks or show the digital version at the counter.
Read more: Did you know this one spot in India covers all seven wonders of the world?
Security check
After check-in, head to the security check area.
Place your hand baggage and electronic items like laptops, phones, and chargers in the trays provided.
Remove metal items (belts, coins, jewellery) and place them in trays for screening.
Follow the 3-3-3 rule for liquids in hand baggage—only 3 items, up to 3 fluid ounces (approx. 100 ml each), packed in a clear plastic bag.
You’ll also undergo a personal frisking and might be asked to show your boarding pass again. Once cleared, collect your items and proceed towards the departure area.
Immigration and customs (for international flyers)If you're flying internationally, proceed to immigration after security. Here, officials will:
Verify your passport and visa.
Ask brief questions about your travel purpose and destination.
Stamp your passport.
Once immigration has stamped you out, follow the signs to customs. Here you’ll need to declare any restricted or high‑value items, so it’s worth studying Delhi Airport ’s duty‑free allowance list before you fly. And don’t forget: some countries expect you to land with a pocketful of their local currency, sort that out before you board.
Read more: The river that crosses the most countries in the world
Finding your gate and boardingOnce you're through security, and immigration if you're flying internationally, check the flight info screens to find your gate. Delhi Airport is big, and getting to your gate can take longer than you'd think. Boarding usually begins around 45 to 60 minutes before take-off, so give yourself enough time to get there without having to sprint. Make sure your mobile phone is charged, and keep essential items like chargers, earphones, medicines, and documents in your cabin bag.
Additional tips for first-time flyers
Download the Delhi Airport app or check their website for real-time updates.
If you're confused at any point, look for the airport's information counters or staff in uniform.
Washrooms, lounges, and food options are available throughout the terminal—use them if you have time before boarding.
Flying for the first time can be exciting and a little nerve-racking, but with the right information and preparation, Delhi Airport is relatively easy to navigate. Follow the steps, stay calm, and you’ll be ready for take-off in no time.
Documents and packingFirst thing first. Make sure that you are carrying all the valid and correct identification documents. For domestic flights, valid photo ID such as Aadhaar, voter ID, PAN, or driving licence will suffice, whereas for international flights, you will need your passport and a valid visa, depending on your destination.
Keep a copy of your ticket, either printed or available on your mobile phone. Then proceed to the terminal building.
As for packing, you know you can't carry all your favourite things with you. Also, first check your airline’s baggage allowance, as it varies by airline and class of travel. As a general rule:
Cabin baggage should not exceed 7kg for economy class.
Checked-in baggage weight limits range between 15–25kg on domestic flights.
Avoid carrying prohibited items in your hand luggage such as scissors, nail cutters, knives, large liquid containers (more than 100ml), or batteries that aren’t permitted. Power banks and lighters should always go in hand luggage, not in checked baggage.
Entry, check-in, and boarding pass
It's always advised that you reach the airport at least 2–3 hours before your flight time. At the entry gate, show your ID and ticket to security personnel.
Once inside, proceed to your airline’s check-in counter or self check-in kiosks to get your boarding pass and drop off your check-in luggage (if any).
If you’ve checked in online, you can print your boarding pass at kiosks or show the digital version at the counter.
Read more: Did you know this one spot in India covers all seven wonders of the world?
Security check
After check-in, head to the security check area.
Place your hand baggage and electronic items like laptops, phones, and chargers in the trays provided.
Remove metal items (belts, coins, jewellery) and place them in trays for screening.
Follow the 3-3-3 rule for liquids in hand baggage—only 3 items, up to 3 fluid ounces (approx. 100 ml each), packed in a clear plastic bag.
You’ll also undergo a personal frisking and might be asked to show your boarding pass again. Once cleared, collect your items and proceed towards the departure area.
Immigration and customs (for international flyers)If you're flying internationally, proceed to immigration after security. Here, officials will:
Verify your passport and visa.
Ask brief questions about your travel purpose and destination.
Stamp your passport.
Once immigration has stamped you out, follow the signs to customs. Here you’ll need to declare any restricted or high‑value items, so it’s worth studying Delhi Airport ’s duty‑free allowance list before you fly. And don’t forget: some countries expect you to land with a pocketful of their local currency, sort that out before you board.
Read more: The river that crosses the most countries in the world
Finding your gate and boardingOnce you're through security, and immigration if you're flying internationally, check the flight info screens to find your gate. Delhi Airport is big, and getting to your gate can take longer than you'd think. Boarding usually begins around 45 to 60 minutes before take-off, so give yourself enough time to get there without having to sprint. Make sure your mobile phone is charged, and keep essential items like chargers, earphones, medicines, and documents in your cabin bag.
Additional tips for first-time flyers
Download the Delhi Airport app or check their website for real-time updates.
If you're confused at any point, look for the airport's information counters or staff in uniform.
Washrooms, lounges, and food options are available throughout the terminal—use them if you have time before boarding.
Flying for the first time can be exciting and a little nerve-racking, but with the right information and preparation, Delhi Airport is relatively easy to navigate. Follow the steps, stay calm, and you’ll be ready for take-off in no time.
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