BLR Airport to allow only 8 minutes of free pick-up time from Dec 8; Overstay to attract steep charges

Bengaluru:

Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru, will introduce a new pick-up management system from 8 December 2025, offering private cars eight minutes of free access at arrival zones, after which steep overstay charges will apply.

While the airport says the measure will ease kerbside congestion, some users argue that the eight-minute window is too short for a smooth pick-up/drop and return, suggesting that at least ten minutes would be more practical.

Bangalore International Airport Ltd. (BIAL) said the move comes amid rising pressure on the airport’s landside areas, which see nearly 100,000 vehicles daily.

Prolonged waiting by private cars and unauthorised halts by cabs have been major contributors to kerbside crowding.

Under the new system, private cars may use the arrival pick-up lane at T1 and T2 free for eight minutes.

Beyond this, vehicles will be charged ₹150 for 8–13 minutes and ₹300 for 13–18 minutes. Any car overstaying beyond 18 minutes will be towed to the nearest police station, with fines and towing charges applicable.

Commercial vehicles — including yellow-board taxis and electric cabs — will not be allowed kerbside waiting and must use designated parking areas, where the first 10 minutes of parking will be complimentary.

Cabs serving T1 must proceed to P3 or P4, while those for T2 must use P2.

BIAL MD & CEO Hari Marar said maintaining discipline at pick-up points is crucial as traffic volumes rise, adding that designated processes make movement safer and more convenient for passengers.

The changes are part of BIAL’s #BeCabWise initiative, introduced in response to increasing instances of unauthorised roadside pick-ups, vehicles idling near arrival gates and halts along exit ramps — all of which have caused bottlenecks and safety risks.