In February 2026, the international flying experience from India has been redefined by a major overhaul of onboard services and the implementation of the Baggage Rules 2026. Whether you are flying on a 10-hour haul to London or a quick hop to Dubai, here is the factual, up-to-date guide on how much you can drink and carry.
Onboard Alcohol: Economy vs. Business Class
Service standards vary by airline, but the 2026 industry trend focuses on "premiumization" in the front and "controlled accessibility" in the back.
Air India: The 2026 Transformation
Air India has introduced a "Global-Indian" menu featuring category-firsts.
- Business Class: In a first for Indian aviation, Air India now serves 1800 Reserva Añejo Tequila. The menu includes Roku Gin, Charles Heidsieck Brut Champagne, and India’s own Rampur Double Cask Single Malt.
- Economy Class: Offers a "cost-controlled" but global selection, including Dewar’s Scotch, Bombay Sapphire Gin, Absolut Vodka, and Kingfisher Ultra.
- The "Unlimited" Myth: While service is all-inclusive, crews follow a "3-drink assessment" rule to ensure safety.
Emirates: The High-Altitude Lounge
- Business Class: Features a full bar service with labels like Glenfiddich 15YO and Woodford Reserve. On A380s, the iconic onboard lounge allows for social drinking.
- Economy Class: Provides complimentary spirits (Jack Daniels, Bacardi), wine, and beers (Heineken/Carlsberg) during meal service.
Lufthansa: The European Precision
- Business Class: Offers a high-end 3-course menu where each dish is paired with specific German or international wines.
- Economy Class: On long-haul flights from India, alcoholic beverages remain free of charge. However, on medium-haul routes, Lufthansa has shifted to an "Onboard Delights" model where premium snacks and certain drinks may be for purchase.
IndiGo: The 6E Bar Model
IndiGo does not provide free alcohol on international flights.
- IndiGo International Flight Alcohol Price and Rules: Alcohol is only for purchase and must be pre-booked via the "6E Bar" at least 72 hours before the flight.
- The Catch: One pre-booked order typically equals two cans of beer. Does IndiGo serve alcohol on Dubai flights? Yes, but only for international sectors; domestic legs of a journey remain dry.
Carriage Rules: Baggage & Customs 2026
The Baggage Rules 2026 (effective February 2, 2026) raised the general duty-free spend limit to INR 75,000, but "sin goods" like alcohol are excluded from this increase.
DGCA Rules for Hand Luggage 2026
- Liquids: Standard 100ml rule applies.
- Duty-Free: Alcohol bought at the airport must be in a Security Tamper-Evident Bag (STEB) with the receipt clearly visible. If you have a domestic connection in India, you must transfer this to your checked bag before the second flight.
Maximum Alcohol Limit in Checked Baggage
- You are permitted to carry up to 5 litres of alcohol in your checked luggage.
- The ABV Rule: The alcohol must be between 24% and 70% ABV. Beverages below 24% (like most beers and wines) technically have no DGCA quantity limit but are subject to airline weight limits.
The "5 Litre" vs. "2 Litre" Customs Trap
Can I carry 5 litres of alcohol on a flight to India?
- Legally: Yes, you can pack 5 litres in your suitcase.
- Financially: Your free allowance is only 2 litres. For the remaining 3 litres, you must go through the Red Channel and pay Customs Duty (typically 150% for spirits). Failing to declare excess alcohol can lead to seizure and fines.
Summing Up
In 2026, Air India and Emirates remain the top picks for those seeking a premium "free alcohol" experience. If you're looking to bring bottles home, remember the 2-litre duty-free limit, even though you can physically pack 5 litres in your checked bag. Above all, fly sober enough to enjoy the destination.
FAQs
How Many Beers Can I Get In Economy?
Most full-service airlines serve 1-2 with meals and allow requests thereafter, but safety is the priority.
Airline Alcohol Limit For 10-Hour International Flight?
There is no legal "cap" on the number of drinks, but the pilot and crew have absolute authority to cut off service to avoid "air rage."
Can I Drink My Own Duty-Free Alcohol On A Plane?
No. Under the Aircraft Rules 1937, it is a criminal offense to consume personal alcohol on a flight. It must be served by the crew for legal monitoring.
