New Delhi: Love shooting Instagram reels or travel vlogs at airports? The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has now issued a stern warning that filming or photographing inside sensitive airport zones could invite heavy penalties, including fines and even a ban on air travel.
In a move aimed at tightening airport security, the aviation regulator has issued stricter guidelines prohibiting passengers from recording videos or taking photographs in security-sensitive and operational areas of airports without prior permission.
Under the new rules, travellers are barred from filming security checkpoints, boarding gates, apron areas, aircraft handling zones, runway buses and other restricted sections within airport premises. Officials say such content, often uploaded on social media platforms, may unintentionally expose sensitive security arrangements, surveillance systems and operational procedures.
Authorities have warned that violators could face immediate action from airport security personnel. While minor or first-time violations may result in passengers being directed to delete the footage, repeat offenders or individuals found capturing sensitive security-related visuals could face tougher consequences.
The DGCA has stated that serious violations may attract financial penalties and, in extreme cases, names of offenders could be recommended for inclusion on the No-Fly List. Such action may lead to temporary or permanent restrictions on air travel depending on the severity of the offence.
Officials have also clarified that mobile phones, cameras or other recording devices may be seized for investigation if necessary.
The regulator further stated that filming advertisements, documentaries, movies or commercial social media content inside airports will require prior approval from airport operators and security agencies. Without permission, such filming activities will not be allowed.
Passengers have been advised to exercise caution while recording travel content and strictly follow instructions issued by airport authorities and security personnel. While photography may still be permitted in designated public areas, officials warned that ignoring security regulations could lead to serious consequences.
