New Zealand Airport Introduces Three-Minute Farewell Rule for Passengers

dunedin - A new rule has been implemented at Dunedin Airport in New Zealand where passengers can only stand still for three minutes to say goodbye, aimed at improving traffic flow around the airport.

A new rule at Dunedin Airport on New Zealand's South Island is causing controversy, as passengers are now only allowed three minutes to bid farewell after dropping off passengers. The rule was introduced to enhance traffic flow around the airport. Passengers requiring longer than three minutes are directed to the parking area. Airport CEO Daniel De Bono explained, 'There is limited space, and there is no room for others.' De Bono also cited scientific evidence that three minutes is sufficient time to say goodbye, as 20 seconds of hugging releases the bonding hormone oxytocin and the happiness hormone serotonin.

Dunedin is not the first airport to implement such a rule. Aalborg Airport in Denmark also enforces a three-minute limit for farewells. The rule has sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some understanding and others criticizing the regulation.