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Indian airlines honour the service of armed forces personnel by offering special discounts on domestic flights. Whether you're serving, retired, or a dependent, this guide covers all airline discounts, the booking process, and documents you'll need.
| Airline | Discount | Eligibility | How to Avail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air India | Up to 50% off base fare | Serving & retired defence personnel + dependents | Book through Air India offices or authorised agents with Defence ID |
| IndiGo | Special defence fare (varies) | Serving armed forces personnel | Select "Armed Forces" fare during booking on website/app |
| SpiceJet | Special military fares on select routes | Serving defence personnel | Contact SpiceJet or book through agents |
| Akasa Air | Defence fares available | Serving personnel | Select during online booking |
| Alliance Air | Up to 50% off | Serving & retired defence personnel | Book through Alliance Air offices |
Best deal: Air India historically offers the most generous armed forces discount — up to 50% off the base fare for serving and retired personnel, plus dependents. Alliance Air (regional flights) also offers similar discounts on smaller routes.
Armed forces personnel are entitled to Leave Travel Concession (LTC) — government-reimbursed travel to their home town. Key points:
TheBookFlight can help armed forces personnel and families find the best discounted fares.
Contact for Defence FaresYes. Air India offers up to 50% off for serving and retired defence personnel. IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air also offer special defence fares on select routes. The discount is on the base fare, taxes are charged at full rate.
Yes, retired defence personnel (ex-servicemen) with a valid ECHS Identity Card can avail discounts primarily on Air India and Alliance Air. IndiGo and SpiceJet defence fares are generally for serving personnel only.
On Air India, dependents (spouse, children up to 25 years, and parents) of serving and retired personnel can avail the defence discount. Other airlines may have more limited dependent eligibility. Carry dependent ID documents.
Air India extends defence discounts to paramilitary forces including BSF, CRPF, CISF, ITBP, SSB, Assam Rifles, and Coast Guard. Other airlines may have limited or no paramilitary discounts. Check with the specific airline.
You need your valid Defence Identity Card, and depending on the airline, a leave certificate from your unit. Retired personnel need their Ex-Serviceman (ECHS) card. Dependents need a dependent certificate. Carry these to the airport for verification.
Air India offers defence discounts on most domestic routes. IndiGo and SpiceJet defence fares may be available on select routes only. International routes may have different discount structures. Check with the airline for specific route availability.