Travelers leaving Dunedin, New Zealand, will have to shorten their farewells as the airport has introduced a three-minute time limit on hugs in the drop-off zone. The rule aims to prevent traffic jams in the area, with signs encouraging those wanting longer goodbyes to use the parking lot instead.
The airport’s CEO, Dan De Bono, explained in an AP report that the limit, imposed in September, helps keep traffic moving efficiently in the newly designed drop-off zone. Social media users were divided on the move, with some criticizing it as a restriction on emotional farewells, while others appreciated the effort to avoid congestion.
De Bono reassured passengers that there won’t be strict enforcement, stating, “We do not have hug police,” though those overstaying may be asked to continue their goodbyes in the parking lot, where hugs are welcome for up to 15 minutes.
