Travelling domestically is as easy as the back of your hand. The real anxiety kicks in when you are faced with boarding your very first international flight. And it’s a completely normal thing to fret about. As kids, we have always dreamt about taking our very first flight out of the country. It might seem like quite the challenge, what with all the rules and regulations that come associated with it. But, the anxiety and doubts are all in your head and once you have given this guide a proper go-through, you’ll realise that boarding an international flight is as easy as a piece of cake. We break it down for you right here.
1. Step 1: Find Your Entry Gate
As soon as you get to the airport, refer to your ticket to check which airline you are flying and use it to locate your gate. Each airline has its own entry gate at the airport and you won’t face any difficulties as there are plenty of signboards outside to point you to your right gate. Make sure that you have your passport and ticket in hand before you approach the gate to gain access inside. It is always wise to keep an alternative ID proof (PAN Card, Aadhar) along with you in case the security at the gate asks for it. And that is it, you have made your way in.
2. Step 2: Procure Your Boarding Pass
On to your next step. Now that you have made your way inside the airport, you need to get to your airline counter to get your boarding pass which will get you access to both the airplane and the lounge (if you are flying business or first class). Once you reach the counter, you will be required to check-in your luggage. Depending on the airline, you will have a certain weight limit when it comes to the luggage. Most international flights allow you to carry 30kgs in your check-in luggage but it may vary. At the counter, you will find a list of objects that you are prohibited from carrying in your check-in luggage. Make sure that you pack right to avoid the hassle of re-packing and throwing products out. Portable chargers, in particular, should always be carried in your hand luggage. If you get all this right, you will be rewarded with your boarding pass after a cursory check of your passport. Load your luggage on to the conveyor belt and you are on to the next stage.
Also Read: Dubai Airport Is Officially The Busiest Airport For International Flights
3. Step 3: Head To Security Check
Look at you, you are breezing your way through this! So, on to the next step which is the security check. Now, it is important to keep in mind that you aren’t allowed to carry any sharp objects with you or any liquids. If you have either of the two with you, they will be confiscated at the security check, so it is always wise to be on the safe side. Stuff everything inside your bag except for your boarding pass. Remember to place your hand luggage on the baggage scanner along with any metal objects and/or laptops. You might be asked to remove your shoes but that is completely normal, so fret not. You’ll be body-scanned by the security personnel who will then stamp your boarding pass to give you the green signal.
4. Step 4: Clearing Immigration
Up till now, everything has been similar to the procedure you would go through while taking a domestic flight. Going through immigration is what will be new for you when you are boarding an international flight. Always, and we can’t stress this enough, always take immigration really seriously. These officials decide whether you will get on your flight or not. As soon as you reach the immigration counter, make sure that you aren’t using your phone because it is prohibited. Wait your turn and approach the counter when you are signalled. The official will go through both your boarding pass and passport. They might ask you a couple of questions about the purpose of your visit, which is again, completely normal. If everything looks right to them, they will stamp both your boarding pass and your visa and you can make your way ahead. And that’s it, you are done with all your formalities. All you need to do is sit back and relax before you board your flight. You can indulge in some duty-free shopping or if you are flying business class, then you can hit up the first-class lounge and get some grub to fuel you for your long flight ahead.
5. Step 5: Boarding The Aircraft
Good job! You have done everything that you needed to do and now all you need to do is make your way to your gate and board your plane. Make sure to keep your passport and boarding pass on hand. Easy, isn’t it?
First Published: October 23, 2019 9:17 AM