A TSA-approved lock is not mandatory for flights from India to the United Kingdom, but it is highly recommended by travel experts. The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) is a United States agency, and their specific master-key system is primarily required for travel into or through the USA. However, security agencies in the UK and India also have the authority to inspect checked baggage. If you use a non-TSA lock and your bag is selected for a manual search, security personnel may have to cut or break your lock to gain access, and they are generally not liable for the damage. A TSA-approved lock allows security officers to use a universal master key to open and relock your bag without destroying it. While you can technically use any lock—or even simple cable ties—using a TSA-compliant one provides an extra layer of convenience and protects your luggage from being permanently damaged during routine security checks. If you are flying via a US carrier or have a layover in the United States on your way to the UK, then a TSA lock becomes much more essential to avoid complications.