In 2026, you do not need a paper ticket to fly for the vast majority of commercial flights. The industry has almost entirely transitioned to e-tickets (electronic tickets), which are linked to your passport or government-issued ID in the airline's database. Most passengers now use a digital boarding pass stored on a smartphone (via apps like Apple Wallet or the airline's own app) to clear security and board the plane. However, having a physical backup or a "paper" version is still recommended in certain scenarios. For example, some international destinations with less developed digital infrastructure may still request a printed itinerary for immigration purposes. Additionally, if your phone battery dies or the airport's Wi-Fi fails, a printed copy can save you significant stress. While the days of the red-and-white carbon-copy ticket are over, the "boarding pass" is still a requirement; if you don't have a mobile version, you can print one at a self-service kiosk or the check-in counter at the airport, often for free, though some budget carriers may charge a fee.