Important DoPT Circular: LTC Air Tickets to Be Booked at Least 21 Days Before Travel
DoPT Advises Government Employees to Book LTC Air Tickets at Least 21 Days in Advance
The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) has issued a circular reminding all Central Government employees to plan their Leave Travel Concession (LTC) journeys well in advance. The advisory emphasizes booking air tickets at least 21 days before the date of travel and submitting LTC advance applications at least 30 days in advance to ensure compliance with existing rules and to reduce travel costs.
Download LTC Air Tickets to Be Booked at Least 21 Days Before Travel in PDF
The circular has been issued under F. No. G-14019/02/2026-Cash, dated 16 July 2026.
Key Highlights
- Air tickets for LTC travel should be booked at least 21 days before the journey.
- LTC advance applications should be submitted at least 30 days before the intended date of travel.
- The objective is to secure competitive airfares and minimize the financial burden on the Government.
- Employees applying for LTC advance should attach a printout of the authorized travel agency's webpage showing the proposed flight and fare details.
- The advisory reiterates the instructions already contained in DoPT O.M. dated 29.08.2022.
Why This Advisory?
During the scrutiny of LTC claims, DoPT observed that many employees were booking air tickets only a few days before travel or even during the same week of the journey. Such last-minute bookings generally result in higher airfare, leading to increased expenditure for the Government.
To address this issue, employees are advised to plan their travel well in advance and strictly follow the prescribed timelines.
Instructions for Government Employees
- Plan your LTC journey early.
- Book air tickets at least 21 days before travel.
- Apply for LTC advance at least 30 days before the journey, if required.
- Ensure bookings are made through the authorized travel agencies as per DoPT guidelines.
- Follow all existing LTC instructions to avoid complications while processing LTC claims.
Conclusion
The latest DoPT circular serves as an important reminder for all Central Government employees, including Department of Posts officials, to plan their LTC travel in advance. Timely booking of air tickets and early submission of LTC advance applications will help employees obtain economical fares while ensuring compliance with Government rules.
Circular at a Glance
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Issuing Authority | Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT) |
| Circular No. | F. No. G-14019/02/2026-Cash |
| Date | 16 July 2026 |
| Air Ticket Booking | At least 21 days before travel |
| LTC Advance Application | At least 30 days before travel |
| Purpose | Reduce airfare costs and ensure compliance with LTC rules |
Source: Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT), Government of India.