Can I smoke at Indian airports?

You can only smoke in designated smoking zones outside the terminal entrance. Smoking inside the terminal (pre or post security) is prohibited with a fine of Rs 200-500. Most airports have no post-security smoking areas. Smoking on the aircraft carries fines up to Rs 2 lakh.

Are vapes allowed at Indian airports?

No. E-cigarettes and vaping devices are completely banned in India under the PECA 2019 act. Possession can lead to confiscation and fines. Vapes bought abroad will be confiscated at Indian customs.

Travel Rules

Smoking Rules at Indian Airports — Where, Penalties & Vaping

Updated June 25, 2026 | 4 min read

Smoking anywhere except designated zones at Indian airports carries a hefty fine. Here's exactly where you can smoke and what happens if you don't follow the rules.

⚠️ Penalty for Smoking Outside Designated Areas

₹200-₹500 fine under COTPA Act. Airport security can also confiscate lighters. Smoking on aircraft is a criminal offense with up to ₹2 lakh fine.

Smoking Zones by Airport

Airport	Pre-Security	Post-Security
Delhi (DEL)	✅ Outside entrance	❌ None
Mumbai (BOM)	✅ Designated area	❌ None
Bangalore (BLR)	✅ Outside entrance	⚠️ Lounge only (some)
Hyderabad (HYD)	✅ Designated area	❌ None

Vaping & E-Cigarettes

❌ Banned in India: E-cigarettes and vaping devices are illegal under PECA 2019
❌ Cannot carry: Possession of vaping devices can lead to confiscation + fine
⚠️ International arrivals: Vapes bought abroad will be confiscated at customs

Practical Tips

🚬 Smoke before entering: Last chance is outside the terminal entrance
🔥 Lighter rules: 1 lighter allowed on your person (not in bag)
📦 Matchboxes: Not allowed in cabin baggage — check-in only

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