Senior Citizen Travel Concessions – Railways, Airlines, Bus
Written by Aruna Sane
Last reviewed: 15 September 2026 | Senior Citizen Information Researcher
Travelling in India becomes significantly more affordable for senior citizens thanks to government-mandated concessions across railways, airlines, and state transport buses. These discounts are available to citizens aged 60 and above (men) and 58 and above (women) upon presenting a valid Senior Citizen Card or age proof.
This guide covers every travel concession available to senior citizens in India, including how to claim them, eligibility rules, and practical tips for booking discounted tickets.
Railways Concessions for Senior Citizens
Indian Railways offers some of the most generous travel concessions for senior citizens. Here are the details:
Concession Rates
| Category | Age | Concession | Class |
|---|---|---|---|
| Senior Citizen (Male) | 60 years and above | 40% on base fare | All classes |
| Senior Citizen (Female) | 58 years and above | 50% on base fare | All classes |
Note: The concession applies to the base fare only. Supplementary charges like reservation fee, GST, and Tatkal charges are not discounted.
How to Claim Railway Concession
- Counter Booking: Present your Senior Citizen Card or age proof (Aadhaar, passport, voter ID) at the railway counter.
- Online Booking (IRCTC): Select "Senior Citizen" concession while booking. Verify age proof during TTE check.
- Senior Citizen Quota: Available in AC classes – book early to get lower berths under this quota.
Lower Berth Preference
Senior citizens can avail Lower Berth Preference under the following conditions:
- Male: 60 years and above
- Female: 45 years and above
- Senior citizens travelling with a companion (same PNR) also get lower berth preference
- Book under "Senior Citizen Quota" on IRCTC for best results
Airline Concessions for Senior Citizens
Most domestic airlines in India offer senior citizen discounts, though the terms vary by airline:
| Airline | Age Requirement | Discount | Booking Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air India | 60+ (men), 58+ (women) | Up to 50% on base fare | Website, call center, counter |
| IndiGo | 60+ | Up to 25% on base fare | Website only |
| SpiceJet | 60+ | Up to 25% on base fare | Website only |
| Vistara | 60+ | Up to 50% on base fare | Website, call center |
| GoFirst | 60+ | Up to 25% on base fare | Website only |
How to Book Senior Citizen Air Tickets
- Visit the airline's official website (not third-party aggregators).
- Enter your travel details and search for flights.
- On the passenger details page, select "Senior Citizen" as the passenger type.
- Enter your date of birth – the system will automatically apply the discount.
- Carry age proof (Aadhaar, passport) during check-in for verification.
State Transport Bus Concessions
Almost every state road transport corporation (SRTC) offers concessional travel for senior citizens. Here are some key states:
| State | Concession | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi (DTC) | Free travel on all routes | 60+ men, 58+ women |
| Maharashtra (MSRTC) | 50% discount on state buses | 60+ |
| Karnataka (KSRTC) | 25–50% concession | 60+ |
| Tamil Nadu (TNSTC) | Free travel for women 60+ | 60+ men, 58+ women |
| Uttar Pradesh (UPSRTC) | 25% concession | 60+ |
| Rajasthan (RSRTC) | 50% concession | 60+ |
| West Bengal (WBSTC) | Free travel for senior citizens | 60+ |
Metro Rail Concessions
Several metro systems also offer concessions:
- Delhi Metro: 20% concession for senior citizens on all tokens and smart cards.
- Bengaluru Metro (BMRCL): 25% concession on monthly passes for seniors.
- Chennai Metro: Concession on smart cards for senior citizens.
- Mumbai Metro: Limited concessions – check with BEST/Mumbai Metro for latest details.
Tips for Availing Travel Concessions
- Always carry your Senior Citizen Card or Aadhaar card as age proof.
- Book online – most airlines and railways apply concessions automatically during online booking.
- Check state-specific rules – concessions vary significantly by state for bus travel.
- Book early for lower berths – senior citizen quota seats fill up quickly on popular routes.
- Keep digital copies of your card on your phone for quick verification.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the age limit for senior citizen railway concession?
Men aged 60 and above and women aged 58 and above are eligible for railway concessions.
Can I get senior citizen concession on Tatkal tickets?
No. The senior citizen concession does not apply to Tatkal tickets. It only applies to general and premium Tatkal base fares.
Do airlines give senior citizen discounts on international flights?
No. Senior citizen airline concessions in India apply only to domestic flights. International airlines have their own policies.
Is the bus concession available on private buses?
Concessions are typically available only on government-operated state transport buses. Private bus operators may offer their own discounts.
Can I get a refund if I booked without the concession?
Most operators allow you to cancel and rebook with the concession if you realise before travel. Check the cancellation policy of your booking.