Knives and Bladed Weapons
Not Allowed
Knives of any size are banned from cabin baggage and must be checked with protective sheaths.
Quick answer
BCAS maintains a zero-tolerance stance because blades can be weaponised. Even tiny pocket knives, souvenir daggers, or chef knives are confiscated when found in cabin bags.
Packing them correctly protects both baggage handlers and your gear. Use rigid sheaths, wrap in bubble wrap, and place them in a hard-sided case. Airlines may deny liability if blades were poorly packed.
Ceremonial exemptions exist only for Sikh kirpans within 6-inch blade and 9-inch total length, and only for Indian nationals on domestic routes. They must be declared at the airline counter for tagging.
Packing knives safely
- âUse blade guards or cardboard sleeves taped securely.
- âPlace knives in the centre of your suitcase surrounded by clothes.
- âAdd a âsharp tools insideâ note for baggage teams.
If carrying ceremonial blades
- âCarry ID proving eligibility (Indian passport/Aadhaar).
- âMeasure to confirm blade <6 inches and total length <9 inches.
- âDeclare at check-in; security will tag it for cabin carriage (kirpan only).
Knife handling summary
| Type | Cabin | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen knife | â | â In sheath |
| Pocket/Swiss knife | â | â |
| Sikh kirpan (within limits) | â ď¸ | Allowed domestically with documentation |
Do this
- â Photograph rare knives before packing for insurance claims.
- â Carry purchase invoices when bringing in expensive chef knives to prove value at customs.
- â Use luggage with TSA-approved locks so security can inspect without cutting your case.
Avoid this
- â ď¸ Donât wrap knives in gift paper; security will open presents.
- â ď¸ Donât check knives looselyâpunctured suitcases void compensation.
- â ď¸ Donât assume foreign airportsâ rules match Indiaâs; follow the strictest standard.
FAQ
Q. Can I carry butter knives?
Plastic or rounded butter knives sometimes pass, but metal ones with any edge must be checked.
Q. What about knives bought at duty-free abroad?
Ask the store to seal them and deliver at the gate, then pack them in checked baggage for the next leg.
Q. Do multi-tools count as knives?
Yes, if they have blades. Check them in alongside other tools.
Tips before you fly
- âď¸ Use PVC pipes with end caps to store long knives securely inside suitcases.
- âď¸ Mark the outside of the knife roll with your contact info in case bags are screened away from you.
- âď¸ If you collect knives, create a simple inventory spreadsheet to share with customs if requested.
Related YourTravelGuide guides
Official references
India DGCA guidelines â simplified
Verified on: 6 Dec 2025
Disclaimer: Aviation and security rules change frequently. Always confirm with your airline, airport help desk, or CISF officers before you travel.