DGCA: Masks mandatory in flights and airports in India

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has made masks mandatory in flight and at the airports in India. This is to be followed in all flights, across all airlines. The mask mandate has come after India recorded 5,233 in a span of just 24 hours. Before this, India was going through a ‘relaxed’ period of more than three months.

This sudden shooting up of cases is alarming. Now that travel has fully resumed in India, both domestic and international, the risk of infection stays high. Travellers need to obey the mask mandate and follow basic sanitary practices for their own safety and also the safety of others.


As per the new mandate, failing to follow the mask mandate and not following COVID-19 safety protocols for passengers, will be categorised as “unruly” behaviour and such travellers may be deboarded if the need arises.


Recently, the Delhi High Court has also issued a mandate that says strict action will be taken against passengers travelling by air if they don’t follow the mask and basic hygiene rules. According to the court, all such passengers will be booked, fined and will be put on the no-fly list.

As per the new DGCA mask mandate, all airlines are to ensure that all of their passengers are masked-up at all times. Should they find any passengers without a mask, the staff needs to supply them with masks and sensitise them. All airports are required to make repeated announcements regarding the mask mandate.

1. Is air travel banned in India?
   No, air travel is not banned in India, but stricter rules have been implemented to ensure that all air passengers follow the mask mandate.
2. Is the mask mandate only for domestic flights?
   The mask mandate is for all air passengers, both domestic and international. Masks are to be worn inside the airport too, not just during the flight.
3. If I forget my mask, can I get one at the airport?
   Yes, one will have access to masks at airports.