The DGCA and Indian airlines have set rules for carrying alcohol on domestic flights in India. Passengers are allowed to carry up to five litres of alcoholic beverages in their checked baggage, as long as the alcohol content is between 24% and 70%. Any alcohol stronger than 70% is not allowed. All bottles must be sealed and kept in their original packaging. To avoid breakage or leaks, passengers should wrap the bottles carefully, using bubble wrap or soft clothes inside their luggage. Opened or partially used bottles are not allowed.
For drinks with 24% alcohol or less, such as most beers and wines, there is no limit on the quantity passengers can carry in checked baggage. However, alcohol is usually not allowed in carry-on bags unless it is purchased from duty-free shops. In that case, the alcohol must be kept in a sealed, transparent plastic bag, and the volume should not exceed one litre. Some airlines like Vistara and SpiceJet allow passengers to carry such alcohol in their cabin baggage if packaging and purchase rules are followed.
Passengers are not allowed to consume their own alcohol during domestic flights. Airlines provide only approved alcoholic beverages on board, and anyone caught drinking their own alcohol may face penalties. Travelers should also check the alcohol laws of their destination state, as some states have restrictions or bans on alcohol that could affect carrying or possessing it after the flight.
Airlines have the right to deny boarding or confiscate alcohol if a passenger appears intoxicated or if carrying alcohol poses safety risks. Proper packaging is important to prevent bottles from breaking or spilling and to protect other luggage. The DGCA and airlines continue to update these rules to keep air travel safe while allowing passengers to carry regional alcoholic drinks across India.
