In a move set to impact thousands of daily commuters, Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru has announced the reintroduction of entry fees for private vehicles picking up arriving passengers. The new charges will come into effect from December 8, 2025.
Revised Fee Structure and Timings
The airport management has outlined a two-tiered fee system based on the duration a vehicle spends in the designated pickup zones at both Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2). For a stay between 8 to 13 minutes, private vehicles will be charged Rs 150. If the stay extends to between 13 and 18 minutes, the fee will increase to Rs 300.
This structured pricing is designed to discourage long dwell times and ensure smoother traffic flow in the crucial arrival pickup areas. The decision follows a period where such fees were not levied, leading to frequent congestion as vehicles waited for extended periods.
Aiming for Decongestion and Efficiency
The primary objective behind reinstating the pickup charges is to manage the persistent traffic congestion around the airport's arrival lanes. By imposing a time-based fee, authorities aim to incentivize drivers to coordinate pickups more efficiently, reducing the number of idling vehicles.
This measure is expected to streamline operations, especially during peak hours, and enhance the overall experience for passengers exiting the terminals. The airport has also released updated traffic maps for both T1 and T2 to help drivers navigate the revised pickup zones.
What This Means for Travellers and Drivers
For residents and visitors using Bengaluru's airport, this change necessitates better planning. Those picking up friends or family are advised to time their arrival at the pickup zone to coincide closely with the passenger's exit from the terminal to minimize costs.
The reintroduction of fees is a clear signal from the airport administration that traffic management is a top priority. While it may add a small cost for private pickups, the intended benefit is a more organized and less chaotic arrival experience for everyone involved.
Passengers are encouraged to inform their pick-up contacts about the new system to avoid confusion and unexpected charges starting the second week of December.
