A look at what ID is required on UK domestic flights

TRAVELLING across the UK by air is seen as an easier option than by train or car.

However, passengers often feel confused about the type of identification required for domestic flights and whether a passport is necessary.

Do I need a passport to fly within the UK?

If you are flying solely within the UK, including Northern Ireland, technically you don't need a passport - but if you have one it's best to take it.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) states on their website: "You will need a current passport if you are travelling abroad and for many domestic flights within the UK"

The CAA adds that: "Some airlines accept photo driving licences and other forms of ID for domestic flights, but many don’t so check your airline's website when you book your flights.

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"If you turn up with the wrong type of ID you will not be able to fly and you are unlikely to get your money back."

It is advisable to bring some form of ID in case you are asked at certain points of the journey if flying internally in the UK.

British Airways, for example, states that passengers do not require a passport to travel within the UK, whilst Ryanair clarifies that it accepts a valid passport and National Identity Card, as there are "different rules for different destinations."

Can I travel with an expired passport?

When flying within the UK it's best practice to have a current passport.

However, as you don't require a passport to travel between the UK countries, you can travel with an expired passport as it contains your personal information and photo.

You can use any documents that show your identity or nationality, which can include an expired passport.

It is important to note that this will not be allowed when travelling outside of the UK, with the exception of Ireland, which accepts other forms of ID from people travelling from England, Scotland or Wales.

Although you can travel with an expired passport, it is recommended that you renew your passport as soon as possible.

There are a number of places you can travel with an expired passport, including London Heathrow to Edinburgh.

The Home Office says that holidaymakers should allow three weeks to receive any new passports.

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The Passport Office website states: "You’ll usually get your passport within 3 weeks.

"It may take longer than 3 weeks if we need more information, or we need to interview you. We’ll tell you this within 3 weeks."

During the summer season in 2023, the average processing time rose to around 10 weeks.

As a result, travellers were advised to apply for their passport renewals well ahead of time to ensure they received their documents before their summer travel plans.

What other form of ID can I bring?

You should always check with your airline what photo ID is acceptable for internal flights within the UK.

BA states photo ID may be checked such as a driving licence, but all of the documents have to be valid.

EasyJet accepts:

• A valid passport - an expired passport can be used up to a maximum of five years after expiry
• Valid photographic EU or Swiss national identity card
• Valid photographic driving licence, provisional or full
• Valid armed forces identity card
• Valid police warrant card/badge

You can use more than one document - for example, a driving licence with a citizenship certificate.

While Ryanair accepts valid IDs, it does not accept a driver's licence or birth certificate for travel to any location.

If you’re using an expired passport or identity card, it must be recent enough that it’s clear that it’s yours.