In a move aimed at easing congestion and streamlining passenger pickups, Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru has revised its parking policy for cab drivers. The airport operator, Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), has announced an extension of the free waiting period for taxis arriving to collect passengers.
What Are the New Rules for Taxi Pickup?
The key change is the extension of the free wait time from 10 minutes to 15 minutes. This five-minute increase provides a larger window for drivers to coordinate with arriving passengers without incurring any charges. The new policy was officially updated and reported on 26 December 2025.
Once the complimentary 15-minute period elapses, a structured parking fee system kicks in. Drivers will be required to pay Rs 100 for a half-hour (30-minute) parking slot. For any time spent beyond that initial half-hour, an additional charge of Rs 50 for every subsequent hour will be applied.
Impact on Passengers and Drivers
This policy adjustment is expected to have a direct impact on the ground transportation experience at one of India's busiest airports. For passengers, the extended free time should mean less pressure during the final moments of disembarkation, baggage collection, and walk to the pickup zone. It allows for minor delays without immediately penalizing the waiting driver.
For cab drivers, particularly those associated with app-based aggregators and pre-booked services, the change offers more flexibility. However, it also reinforces the need for efficient timing. The revised fee structure after the free window is designed to manage the flow of vehicles in the pickup area and discourage prolonged parking, which contributes to traffic bottlenecks.
BIAL's Ongoing Management of Airport Traffic
The decision by BIAL reflects a continuous effort to optimize operations at Kempegowda International Airport. Managing the sheer volume of vehicles in the pickup and drop-off zones is a persistent challenge. By tweaking the waiting period and associated costs, the airport authority aims to strike a balance between passenger convenience and operational efficiency.
The move is seen as a practical step to decongest the approach roads and parking areas, ensuring a smoother experience for all airport users. It aligns with broader initiatives to enhance the overall infrastructure and service quality at the Bengaluru aviation hub.
