- Photography inside civilian airport terminals remains permitted for travellers
- Photography is prohibited at defence airports and restricted airside areas
- Airside photography needs prior approval from airport authorities and DGCA
Multiple recent reports have suggested changes in photography and videography rules at Indian airports, leaving many travellers unsure whether they can still take selfies or shoot content inside terminals. However, sources confirm that there has been no change in photography rules within airport premises.
Photography inside terminal buildings continues to be permitted at all civilian airports. In-flight photography is also allowed. Additionally, taking photographs inside terminals of civilian airports and civil enclaves remains permissible.
Where Is Photography Not Allowed?
Photography at defence airports is prohibited.
Further, photography on the airside - that is, beyond the terminal building - was not allowed earlier and continues to remain restricted, unless specific permission is granted by the airport authorities and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). This includes areas such as ramps, aerobridges, and airport buses, particularly at defence airports.
Also Read: Chinese Man Damages Thailand Airport Gates Worth Rs 14 Lakh, Gets Lifetime Ban
What Does DGCA Say?
As per the DGCA, photography is permitted within the terminal buildings of (a) civilian airports and (b) civil enclaves at defence airports such as Pune, Goa and Guwahati, as stated in SO1353 dated December 9, 2004. However, travellers are advised to exercise caution at defence airports and avoid photographing any defence-related zones. Taking photographs of defence areas from inside an aircraft is strictly prohibited.
