(Web Desk) - An airport in New Zealand has limited hugging in its drop-off zone to a maximum of three minutes - with anyone wanting a longer goodbye told to head for the car park.
Dunedin International Airport, on New Zealand's South Island, announced the rule change last month as part of a broader effort to improve safety and keep traffic flowing in the zone, local media reported.
Dan De Bono, Dunedin Airport’s chief executive, explained the reason behind the move to Radio New Zealand (RNZ), noting that typical warning messages at airport drop-off zones are often stern and may threaten fines or wheel clamps — an approach the airport wanted to avoid.
“We’re trying to have fun with it. It is an airport, and drop-off locations are often where emotional farewells take place,” De Bono told RNZ.
“But too many people were taking too long, which means there’s no space left for others. It’s about giving everyone a chance to have their hugs,” he said.