22-10-2024 (DUNEDIN) Â Dunedin Airport in New Zealand has implemented a novel approach to managing traffic flow: a three-minute limit on farewell embraces in the drop-off zone. The initiative, dubbed the ‘cuddle cap’ by locals, aims to prevent prolonged goodbyes from causing congestion outside the terminal.
Signage erected in September boldly declares “Max hug time three minutes”, advising those seeking “fonder farewells” to relocate to the airport’s car park. This unorthodox measure has thrust the modest regional airport, serving a population of 135,000 on New Zealand’s South Island, into the spotlight of social media debate.
Dan De Bono, CEO of Dunedin Airport, explained the rationale behind the policy to The Associated Press. “It’s our way of reminding people that the zone is for quick farewells only,” he stated. De Bono emphasised that the approach was intended as a more personable alternative to the stern warnings of wheel clamping or fines seen at other airports.
The initiative has polarised public opinion. Some critics have decried the move as an infringement on basic human rights, questioning the airport’s authority to dictate the duration of emotional farewells. Conversely, others have welcomed the change, viewing it as a practical solution to a common problem.
De Bono defended the three-minute allowance, asserting it provides “plenty of time to pull up, say farewell to your loved ones and move on.” He even ventured into the realm of pop psychology, noting that a 20-second hug is sufficient to release the wellbeing-boosting hormones oxytocin and serotonin, quipping that anything longer becomes “really awkward.”
Despite the strict-sounding nature of the policy, De Bono was quick to assure travellers that enforcement would be light-handed. “We do not have hug police,” he joked. Instead, those wishing to extend their goodbyes are encouraged to make use of the airport’s car park, where up to 15 minutes of free parking is available for more leisurely farewells.
This quirky approach stands in stark contrast to measures adopted by some British airports, where fees for all drop-offs, regardless of duration, have been introduced. Dunedin’s method appears to strike a balance between maintaining traffic flow and acknowledging the emotional aspect of air travel.
