Digital Boarding Pass Acceptance
Allowed
QR boarding passes on airline apps or email are accepted at entry, security, and boarding.
Quick answer
Digital passes save time at check-in, but they need a little prep. Download the PDF or add it to Apple/Google Wallet so scanners work even when airport Wi-Fi is patchy. If you rely on the airline app alone, log in before you leave home.
At CISF entry you must show both your ID and the digital pass. Some airports still stamp paper bag tags, so a staff member may print them for you even if you stay paperless otherwise.
Battery anxiety is realâkeep at least 30% charge when you reach the gate. Screenshots are fine as backup, but the original QR should stay handy in case the agent needs to refresh seat details.
Before reaching the airport
- âDownload the boarding pass PDF or wallet file.
- âTake a screenshot as a backup.
- âNote the PNR and seat number separately in case scanners fail.
At checkpoints
- âIncrease brightness and remove screen protectors with scratches.
- âTurn off dark mode; black backgrounds confuse some scanners.
- âKeep your phone unlocked until you are past the boarding gate.
When paper is still needed
| Stage | Digital pass | Paper backup |
|---|---|---|
| CISF entry | â Accepted | Carry ID alongside |
| Security tray tag | â ď¸ Depends | Some airports print a small slip |
| Boarding gate | â Accepted | Gate staff can reprint if screen cracks |
Do this
- â Use airplane mode with Wi-Fi on; this stops random notifications from hiding the QR.
- â Carry a slim power bank (cabin only) to avoid battery drops.
- â Rename the screenshot with flight number for quick search.
Avoid this
- â ď¸ Donât crop the QR too much; scanners need the border region.
- â ď¸ Avoid storing the pass only in emailâdownload it in case internet fails.
- â ď¸ Never forward the QR to strangers; it can be misused to access your booking.
FAQ
Q. Is a WhatsApp forward enough?
If the QR stays clear, yesâbut prefer official sources. The safest option is the airline app or emailed PDF.
Q. What if my phone dies mid-journey?
Request a reprint at the airline counter or ask if they can send it to the gate. Carry ID so they can confirm identity before reissuing.
Q. Do I still need to tag cabin baggage?
Many airports ditched paper bag tags, but if your airport still stamps them, staff will hand you a blank tag even when you go paperless.
Tips before you fly
- âď¸ Add the pass to your smartwatch if supportedâgreat backup during boarding.
- âď¸ Use file widgets so the pass sits on your home screen for quick access.
- âď¸ If travelling in a group, store everyoneâs passes in a shared album so any adult can present them.
Related YourTravelGuide guides
Official references
India DGCA guidelines â simplified
Verified on: 5 Dec 2025
Disclaimer: Aviation and security rules change frequently. Always confirm with your airline, airport help desk, or CISF officers before you travel.