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Air travel has become an essential part of modern life, but for first-time flyers, airport procedures can be daunting. India now has more than 150 airports, with over 15 crore passengers taking to the skies each year. Understanding the steps involved in boarding a flight can make your journey smoother and less stressful. Booking Your Flight The first step is to book your ticket online, either directly on the airline’s website or through travel apps like MakeMyTrip or Cleartrip. After booking, download or print your boarding pass and keep it handy along with a valid ID such as an Aadhaar card or passport. Preparing For The Airport Passengers should also check baggage allowances carefully. Most airlines allow 7 kg of hand luggage and 15-20 kg of check-in baggage. Avoid packing liquids or sharp objects in hand luggage. Experts recommend arriving at the airport at least 2-3 hours before departure, especially at busy hubs like Delhi and Mumbai. Check-in Process Upon entering the airport, show your ID at the entrance. Proceed to the airline’s check-in counter or use a self-service kiosk to print your boarding pass and tag your check-in baggage. Airline staff will provide your gate number and boarding time. Once this is done, head to the security check. Security Check At the security checkpoint, place your bags, electronics, shoes, and belt in trays for X-ray screening. You will pass through a metal detector, and prohibited items such as lighters, blades, or scissors may be confiscated. After clearing security, your boarding pass and ID will be verified again. Passengers can then visit duty-free shops or lounges while waiting. Reaching The Boarding Gate The boarding pass lists the gate number and boarding time. It is recommended to reach the gate at least 30 minutes before departure. Airline staff will announce boarding, and passengers should line up according to seat numbers or zones. International travellers will also need to complete passport control at this stage. Boarding The Flight Passengers board the plane via an airbridge or bus. Cabin crew assist in finding seats and storing hand luggage in overhead bins. Before takeoff, travellers should fasten seatbelts, listen to safety instructions, and switch mobile phones to airplane mode. The crew ensures all passengers are ready before the flight departs. With a little preparation and awareness of these steps, first-time flyers can navigate airports confidently and start their journeys on a smooth note.
