New 'overstay' rules spark chaos at Bengaluru airport
What's the story
Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) witnessed a major disruption on December 14 as the Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) implemented new "overstay" rules. The changes were introduced in the arrival pick-up zones, especially affecting Terminal 1. According to Moneycontrol, passengers complained of walking up to 1.5km with heavy luggage to reach designated parking areas due to restrictions on private and commercial vehicles imposed by the new rules.
Public outcry
Passengers voice concerns over new airport rules
Passengers took to the social media platform X to express their displeasure over the new rules. A user identified as Gautam Pradhan described the situation as an "obstacle course" at Terminal 1 arrivals, cautioning travelers with baggage, children, or elderly family members. Another person, Boris D'Souza, detailed his experience of dragging luggage for nearly a kilometer without trolleys and navigating queues for lifts amid unclear directions and a lack of staff assistance.
Twitter Post
Passengers complain about chaos at T1 arrival
@BLRAirport has designed an obstacle course before you can get into your taxi at T1 arrivals. Anyone with baggage, kids or elders will struggle. Don't create problems!
— Gautam Pradhan (@gautamnpradhan) December 14, 2025
Please go back to the old system!
cc: @ChristinMP_
Rule details
New 'overstay' rules aim to streamline airport operations
The new "overstay" rules were first implemented at Terminal 2 on December 11 and then at Terminal 1 on December 13. Under these rules, private vehicles are given eight minutes of free access at arrival pick-up zones before incurring a fee. Vehicles exceeding the maximum waiting time could be towed, with fines and towing charges applicable. BIAL claims these measures are intended to streamline kerbside movement and enhance passenger experience.
Past attempt
BIAL's previous attempt to impose similar restrictions
This is not the first time BIAL has tried to impose such restrictions. In May 2024, a similar plan was suspended after protests from drivers and passengers, along with an online backlash. The airport's lack of Metro connectivity, which is now expected to connect it with the city by December 2027, as well as the reliance on tolled roads, have also been criticized by travelers.