What Is a Domestic Flight?

A domestic flight is a flight that travels within the same country, from one city or airport to another.

For example, if you travel from Delhi to Mumbai, the flight is a domestic flight because both airports are in India.

In the example image below, the flight is a domestic flight between Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), Delhi, and Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (LKO), Lucknow.

On the other hand, if a flight travels from Delhi to Singapore, it is an international flight because it crosses an international border.

Flight Ticket showing a domestic flight from Delhi to Lucknow, with DEL and LKO airport codes and terminal details.
Example of a domestic flight ticket showing travel from Delhi to Lucknow, with both airports located in India.

Is Knowing the Difference Important for Passengers?

Yes. Domestic and international flights can involve different airport procedures.

For a domestic flight within India, passengers generally complete check-in, security screening and boarding without going through international immigration.

International travel generally involves additional formalities such as immigration and customs, and passengers may also need a passport and visa depending on the destination and their nationality.

Understanding whether your flight is domestic or international helps you know what airport procedures to expect before travelling.

Related Airport Terms

  1. Flight Number
  2. Self Check-in
  3. Check-in
  4. Check-in Counter
  5. International Flight
  6. Airport Glossary

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