How to Get Your Boarding Pass in India — Complete Guide 2026

A boarding pass is your entry ticket to board the aircraft. In India, there are four main ways to get your boarding pass — here's how each method works.

Method 1: Online Check-In (Recommended)

The fastest and most convenient way. Available 48-2 hours before departure on most airlines.

1. Go to the airline's website or app
2. Enter your PNR/booking reference and last name
3. Select your seat (if not already selected)
4. Download or screenshot your boarding pass
5. Show the digital boarding pass at security and boarding gate

Online check-in windows:

• IndiGo: 48 hours to 2 hours before departure
• Air India: 48 hours to 75 minutes before departure
• SpiceJet: 48 hours to 2 hours before departure
• Akasa Air: 48 hours to 60 minutes before departure

Method 2: Airport Self-Check-In Kiosk

Available at most major airports in India:

1. Find the self-check-in kiosks near the airline counter
2. Scan your booking confirmation barcode or enter PNR
3. Verify your identity and select seat
4. Print your boarding pass from the kiosk

Airports with kiosks: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, and most metro airports.

Method 3: Airport Counter Check-In

The traditional method — go to the airline's check-in counter at the airport:

• When to arrive: At least 2 hours before domestic departure
• Documents needed: Valid photo ID and booking confirmation
• Counter closes: Usually 45-60 minutes before departure

Method 4: Mobile Boarding Pass

Most airlines now support mobile boarding passes on your phone:

• Check in online and select "Mobile Boarding Pass"
• Pass is saved to your airline app or as a PDF
• Some airports and airlines support Apple Wallet and Google Wallet passes
• Important: Keep your phone charged — you'll need the pass at security and boarding

What's on a Boarding Pass?

• Passenger name — Must match your ID exactly
• Flight number — e.g., 6E 2023
• Date and time — Departure time
• Gate number — Where to board (may change — check displays)
• Seat number — Your assigned seat
• Boarding group/zone — When you can board
• Barcode/QR code — Scanned at security and boarding gate

Common Boarding Pass Problems

• Name mismatch: If your boarding pass name doesn't match your ID, you may be denied boarding. Contact the airline immediately.
• Lost boarding pass: If you lose your printed pass, ask at the airline counter for a reprint. Mobile pass users can re-download from the app.
• Gate change: Gates can change — always check the airport display screens before heading to the gate.