A GOOD way to travel from one end of the UK to another is by air on a domestic flight.
However, there is often confusion surrounding the type of identification you need to do this, and whether you are required to have your passport.
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.
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.
The rules may vary between airlines, so it is important to check their rules beforehand to avoid disappointment.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) states on their website: “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.
“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.”
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 form of ID from people travelling form England, Scotland or Wales.
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.
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.
If you’re using an expired passport or identity card, it must be recent enough that it’s clear that it’s yours.
