Airport Reportedly Sets A Time Limit For Goodbye Hugs For Travelers

An airport overseas has implemented a restriction that has upset many travelers. When traveling, especially when returning home after a visit, it's the last opportunity to see friends and family in the current country.

Often, this means that travelers take extra time to say goodbye and cherish these final moments before departing for home. This frequently includes numerous goodbyes and hugs, especially if the person is traveling a long distance, making it an emotional moment.

With that said, an airport overseas has imposed a time limit on how long these goodbye hugs can last, upsetting many people in the process. This rule has drawn significant criticism, as many individuals view the airport as their last little hurrah before returning home to a place far from their friends and family.

If you're interested in learning more about this rule, what it entails, and where it is happening, then keep reading as we provide all the details here.

As you can see, they have a sign clearly explaining their limit on goodbye hugs.

At an airport in New Zealand, Dunedin Airport has a sign in its building that states, "max hug time three minutes," in order to "keep things moving smoothly," according to airport CEO Dan De Bono. However, this rule has upset many travelers, who feel it is inappropriate to impose a time limit on something as precious as a farewell hug.

It also states that "for longer farewells, please use the car park," essentially indicating that travelers should say goodbye in the parking lot if they plan to exceed the three-minute maximum time.

Sarah Soper/Dunedin Airport via AP

Some travelers took to social media to voice their opinions about this new rule.

"Wow, the government just wants to control everything. Even our hugs," one user posted on X.

"Once Big Government takes control, it will never run out of things it wants to regulate," someone else commented.

"LOL. Is there anything Europeans won’t regulate?" one user remarked.

"We were accused of breaching basic human rights. How dare we limit how long someone can have a hug?" said De Bono.

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Some people actually applauded the rule or made jokes.

"I’d make it 30 seconds," said one man on X.

"I mean... a three-minute hug is just uncomfortable, soooo," another person added.

"It's meant to ensure everyone gets their moment without causing delays. A quick hug can still be heartfelt," another commenter noted.

De Bono stated that the time limit is "plenty of time to pull up, say farewell to your loved ones, and move on."

iStock, Sarah Soper/Dunedin Airport via AP

Traveling can be an emotional experience, particularly during farewells. Relationship expert Dr. Esther Perel emphasizes that these moments of connection are vital for emotional well-being.

According to her, physical touch, like hugs, reinforces bonds and provides comfort in stressful situations like travel. When such moments are restricted, it can lead to feelings of disconnection and anxiety.

To navigate this, airports could consider designated areas where travelers can say goodbye without time constraints. This would respect emotional needs while still maintaining operational efficiency.

The Psychological Impact of Farewells

Psychologists note that goodbyes can significantly impact emotional health. Dr. Susan David, an expert in emotional agility, emphasizes that the way we cope with farewells can influence our mental resilience.

Her research highlights that acknowledging emotions during significant transitions fosters healthier coping mechanisms. Airports might benefit from providing resources that help travelers process these emotions, such as guided reflections or support spaces.

Implementing such strategies could transform a stressful goodbye into a moment of emotional closure, promoting overall well-being.

Opinions are quite divided regarding this new rule; some people support it while others do not. It's interesting, but realistically, this is probably enough time to give a hug and say goodbye.

Getting most of your goodbyes and any other affection out in the parking lot is probably a smarter move anyway.

The recent airport policy restricting goodbye hugs has sparked a vital conversation about emotional connections during travel. Experts like Dr. Esther Perel and Dr. Susan David underscore the importance of these farewell moments in reinforcing relationships and emotional health.

As airports consider operational efficiency, incorporating dedicated spaces for emotional farewells could enhance traveler experience. Balancing emotional needs with logistical realities can create a more compassionate environment for all, ultimately improving the travel experience.