Air India and IndiGo Begin Digi Yatra International Trials at Seven Airports

Air India and IndiGo have begun passenger trials for international travel using the Digi Yatra facial-recognition platform at seven Indian airports starting November 1. This beta programme, scheduled to run through December, is currently restricted to Indian nationals who hold e-passports containing embedded electronic chips.

According to the Digi Yatra Foundation, passenger feedback gathered during these trials will help guide a broader public rollout planned for 2027.

Key Details of the International Trial

• Participating Airports: Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, Mumbai, Chennai, and Amritsar.
• Airlines Involved: All international destinations served by Air India and select destinations served by IndiGo.
• Touchpoints: Eligible travellers can use the facial-recognition service at terminal entry points, security hold areas, and boarding gates where infrastructure is available.

Enrollment and Verification Process

To participate, eligible passengers must complete the following steps using the Digi Yatra mobile application:

• Scan their e-passport using the app.
• Read the passport chip using a compatible smartphone's near-field communication (NFC) feature.
• Take a selfie for facial verification.

Once verified, the digital credential is securely stored within the Digi Yatra wallet on the passenger's smartphone. The Digi Yatra Foundation noted that the app has been redesigned with an updated consent screen to clarify how data is shared and used.

Important Limitations and Mandates

• Not a Replacement: The trial does not replace mandatory immigration or airline document checks.
• Documentation: Passengers are still required to carry all physical travel documents and complete standard regulatory formalities.

Digi Yatra Foundation CEO Suresh Khadakbhavi stated that the trials represent a significant step toward extending the digital travel experience to international routes. The foundation also plans to explore interoperability with global aviation identity frameworks for cross-border use.

Practical Implications and Verification

Travellers planning to use the service should ensure their smartphones support NFC and that they hold a valid e-passport. Because trials are limited to specific airports, airlines, and e-passport holders, passengers should verify terminal readiness and official guidelines directly through the official Digi Yatra app or airline announcements before arriving at the airport.