Digi Yatra Begins International Passenger Trials At 7 Indian Airports, Wider Rollout Planned In 2027

New Delhi, India - Digi Yatra has initiated trials for international passengers at seven Indian airports, signaling progress in the implementation of digital solutions within the nation's aviation industry. This trial phase, set to continue from November to December 2026, permits eligible Indian citizens possessing e-passports to leverage Digi Yatra at designated airport checkpoints while flying on select international flights operated by Air India and IndiGo.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation announced that the trials are underway at Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, Mumbai, Chennai, and Amritsar airports. Eligible passengers can access the service at terminal entry points, Security Hold Areas (SHA), and boarding gates, provided the requisite infrastructure is in place. Feedback gathered throughout the trial period will guide the planning of an expanded rollout in 2027.

To utilize Digi Yatra, eligible Indian nationals must generate an e-passport-based Verifiable Credential (VC) via the Digi Yatra mobile application. The process entails scanning the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) of the e-passport, utilizing the Near Field Communication (NFC) capability of a compatible smartphone to read the embedded chip, capturing a selfie, and verifying the details.

The credential is stored within the passenger's Digi Yatra wallet on their device and can be utilized at airport touchpoints enabled for the trials.

It is vital to note that Digi Yatra is meant to supplement, not supplant, existing travel procedures. Travelers must still carry their travel documents and complete all mandatory airline document checks, immigration procedures, and other pertinent travel formalities.

Digi Yatra's reach has already grown substantially across India's aviation network, boasting over 26.5 million users and facilitating more than 110 million journeys across 39 domestic airports since its inception. The platform aims to serve 25 additional domestic airports by 2027. The Ministry of Civil Aviation is steadfast in its commitment to harnessing technology to enhance airport operations and streamline air travel, in accordance with the Government of India's Digital India and Ease of Flying initiatives.